Prince George's County Landscape Manual - December 2010

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PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY
LANDSCAPE MANUAL
December 2010
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission

www.pgplanning.org
Table of Contents
PAGE
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................ 1
SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION AND PROCEDURES .................................................................... 5
1.1 Applicability ........................................................................................................................ 5
1.2 Approval Process ................................................................................................................. 9
1.3 Alternative Compliance ....................................................................................................... 9
1.4 Plant Substitutions ............................................................................................................. 11
1.5 Certification of Installation of Plant Materials ................................................................... 12
1.6 Maintenance and Enforcement ........................................................................................... 13
1.7 Certificate of Landscape Maintenance ............................................................................... 13
SECTION 2 PLAN PREPARATION .................................................................................................. 15

2.1 Preparation of Landscape Plans .................................................................................................... 15
2.2 Submittal Requirements ................................................................................................................ 15
SECTION 3 LANDSCAPE ELEMENTS AND DESIGN CRITERIA ........................................................ 18

3.1 Design Elements ........................................................................................................................... 18
3.2 Design Criteria: Functional and Aesthetic Values of Plants ......................................................... 18
3.3 Landscape Functions..................................................................................................................... 18
3.4 Landscape Elements...................................................................................................................... 21
3.5 Other Landscape Design Considerations ...................................................................................... 23
SECTION 4 LANDSCAPE STANDARDS ...................................................................................................... 31

4.1 Residential Requirements ............................................................................................................. 31
4.2 Requirements for Landscape Strips Along Streets ....................................................................... 41
4.3 Parking Lot Requirements ............................................................................................................ 47
4.4 Screening Requirements ............................................................................................................... 60
4.5 Stormwater Management Facilities .............................................................................................. 65
4.6 Buffering Development from Streets ............................................................................................ 65
4.7 Buffering Incompatible Uses ........................................................................................................ 74
4.8 Landscape Requirements in a Regional Urban Community ......................................................... 96
4.9 Sustainable Landscaping Requirements ....................................................................................... 98
4.10 Street Trees Along Private Streets ............................................................................................ 101
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SECTION 5 GLOSSARY OF TERMS ......................................................................................................... 105
APPENDICES ................................................................................................................................. 109

Appendix 1 Alternative Compliance Submittal Checklist ................................................................ 110
Appendix 2 Plant Substitution Request Form ................................................................................... 112
Appendix 3 Plant Lists ...................................................................................................................... 113
Appendix 4 Landscape Specifications and Planting Details ............................................................. 126
LIST OF FIGURES
Section 4.2: Landscape Strip Along Streets
4.2-1 Developing Tier, Developed Tier, Centers and Corridor NodesOption 1 ............................. 42
4.2-3 Developing Tier, Developed Tier, Centers and Corridor NodesOption 3,
Rural TierOption 2 ................................................................................................................ 43
4.2-5 Required Landscape Strip: Rural TierOption 1 ..................................................................... 45
Section 4.3: Parking Lot Requirements, Parking Lot Perimeter Landscape Strip Requirements
4.3-1 Parking Lot Within 30 Feet of Property Line ............................................................................ 49
4.3-2 Option 1-Developing Tier, Developed Tier, Centers and Corridor Nodes ................................ 49
4.3-3 Option 2-Developing Tier, Developed Tier, Centers and Corridor Nodes ................................ 50
4.3-4 Option 1-Developing Tier ......................................................................................................... 51
4.3-5 Option 2-Developing Tier ......................................................................................................... 51
4.3-6 Option 1-Rural Tier ................................................................................................................... 52
4.3-7 Parking Lot Area ....................................................................................................................... 53
4.3-8 Minimum Width of Landscape Island Parallel to Spaces (parking on both sides) .................... 55
4.3-9 Minimum Width of Landscape Island Perpendicular to Spaces (parking on both sides) .......... 55
4.3-10 Minimum Width of Landscape Island Perpendicular to Spaces (parking on one side) ........... 56
4.3-11 Minimum Number of Planting Islands .................................................................................... 57
4.3-12 Parking Bay Separation ........................................................................................................... 57
Section 4.7: Buffering Incompatible Uses
4.7-1 Relationship of Bufferyards and Landscape Strips ................................................................... 77
4.7-2 Use Determination for Horizontally Arranged Mixed-Use Development................................. 78
4.7-3 Use Determination for Vertically Arranged Mixed-Use Development ..................................... 79
4.7-4 Required Bufferyard Adjacent to Existing Bufferyard .............................................................. 88
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4.7-5 Developing Non-Residential Use Adjacent to Vacant Residentially-Zoned Property .............. 91

4.7-6 Developing Residential Use Adjacent to Vacant Residentially-Zoned Property ...................... 91
4.7-7 Developing Property Adjacent to Incompatible, Nonconforming Use...................................... 92
4.7-8 Developing Property Adjacent to Historic Site ......................................................................... 93
Section 4.10: Street Trees Along Private Streets
4.10-1 Minimum Soil Surface Area Required .................................................................................. 103
LIST OF TABLES
4.1-1
On-Site Residential Planting Requirements...................................................................... 37
4.3-1
Parking Lot Interior Planting Requirements ..................................................................... 54
4.7-1
Use Impact Categories ...................................................................................................... 80
4.7-2
Minimum Bufferyard Requirements ................................................................................. 87
4.7-3
Bufferyard Types .............................................................................................................. 88
SAMPLE SCHEDULES
4.1-1
Residential Requirements for One-Family Detached Lots ............................................... 38
4.1-2
Residential Requirements for Townhouses, One-Family Semi-Detached, and

Two-Family Dwellings Arranged Horizontally ................................................................ 39
4.1-3
Residential Requirements for Two-Family and Three-Family Dwellings Arranged

Vertically .......................................................................................................................... 39
4.1-4
Residential Requirements for Multifamily ....................................................................... 40
4.2-1
Requirements for Landscape Strips Along Streets ........................................................... 46
4.3-1
Parking Lot Perimeter Landscape Strip for Parking Lots 7,000 Square Feet or Larger ... 58
4.3-2
Interior Planting for Parking Lots 7,000 Square Feet or Larger ....................................... 59
4.6-1
Buffering Residential Development from Streets ............................................................. 72
4.6-2
Buffering Development from Special Roadways ............................................................. 73
4.7-1
Buffering Incompatible Uses Requirements ..................................................................... 95
4.9-1
Sustainable Landscaping Requirements ......................................................................... 100
4.10-1
Street Trees Along Private Rights-of-Way ..................................................................... 104
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Introduction
History
The purpose of the Prince Georges County Landscape Manual is to enhance the quality of life of
county residents, the appearance of communities, and the overall environmental health of Prince
Georges County by improving the design, sustainability, and quality of landscaping. Toward that
end, the Landscape Manual set forth in one publication all of the regulations for landscaping,
buffering, and screening that apply to public and private development in Prince Georges County.
It established minimum mandatory standards, articulated design guidelines, provided options that
allow greater creativity and flexibility in design, and established a procedure for approval of
alternative methods of compliance with the standards.
On October 3, 1989, the Prince Georges County Council approved Council Bill CB-1-1989,
legislation that removed sections of the Prince Georges County Zoning Ordinance (the Zoning
Ordinance) that addressed landscaping, buffering, and screening and consolidated them into the
Landscape Manual. CB-1-1989 adopted the Landscape Manual by reference as part of the Zoning
Ordinance. The Landscape Manual was first amended by CB-62-1990. The Landscape Manual
was further amended in 1992 by CB-30-1992 and CB-91-1992 and in 2008 by CB-29-2008.
2010 Comprehensive Update
The comprehensive update to the Landscape Manual (updated manual) is intended to set a new
standard of excellence in the design, sustainability, and quality of landscaping in the county and
to generate aesthetic, economic, environmental, and health benefits for the countys residents,
businesses, and visitors.
Aesthetic Benefits
(a)
Establish a greater sense of continuity within individual developments.
(b)
Ensure smoother visual transitions from one type of development to another.
(c)
Enhance the relationship between incompatible land uses, particularly between residential
and commercial or industrial uses.
(d)
Define public and private spaces.
(e)
Screen unsightly views and provide privacy.
(f)
Provide visual relief from views of expansive paved areas, such as parking compounds.
(g)
Protect scenic and historic landscapes and sites.
Environmental and Health Benefits
(a)
Reduce heat islands, and minimize effects on microclimates.
(b)
Filter and reduce stormwater runoff.
(c)
Reduce greenhouse gases and improve air quality.
(d)
Promote energy conservation.
(e)
Increase pedestrian activity by creating safer pedestrian-friendly environments.
(f)
Reduce the negative effects of reflection and glare.
(g)
Control erosion.
(h)
Provide wildlife habitat.
Economic Benefits
(a)
Enhance commercial viability of an area or business.
(b)
Increase home values.
(c)
Minimize utility costs.
These benefits are accomplished through the updated manual by maintaining existing regulations
that create more attractively landscaped outdoor spaces, creating a greater sense of continuity
within individual developments, and allowing smoother visual transitions from one development
to another. It also includes revised regulations requiring improved buffers between incompatible
land uses that will reduce negative impacts of more-intensive uses on less-intensive, adjacent
uses. Revised parking lot requirements will result in more shade, reduced glare and heat build-up,
and less visual monotony created by large expanses of pavement and parked cars. Revised
regulations for buffering all types of development from streets and special roadways will improve
the view of developments. Additionally, new regulations have been added regarding standards for
private streets and sustainable landscaping techniques, such as ways to use plants to lessen the
harsh effect of the summer sun, provide protection from winter winds, create barriers from
unwanted noise, help filter and purify water, prevent soil erosion, and contribute to cleaner air.
The updated manual also contains standards specific to the tier in which a property is located
based on the Prince Georges County Approved General Plan (the General Plan). In October
2002, the Prince Georges County Council approved the plan to provide long-range guidance for
the future growth of the county. The plan established three development tiers that correspond to
the different development patterns in the county and specify their desired levels and forms of
development. Within the Developed and Developing Tiers, the plan designates centers and
corridors within which more intense development is encouraged to capitalize on existing public
investments in infrastructure, such as transportation facilities. The plan also introduced the
concept of a corridor nodea concentrated, higher-intensity, mixed-use location within onequarter mile of a major intersection or major transit stop along a designated corridorto be
developed in a pedestrian-oriented form. Specific corridor nodes are identified in the adopted
sector and master plan processes. This updated manual recognizes this range of development
patterns and establishes standards designed to address the tiers, centers, and corridor nodes
unique constraints and opportunities and to help implement the visions set forth in the plan.
Contents
Section 1, General Information and Procedures, of the updated manual includes information on
the applicability of standards, approval procedures, and the process for requesting approval of
proposals for alternative compliance and plant substitutions.
Section 2, Plan Preparation, sets forth requirements for the preparation and content of all
landscape plans.
Section 3, Landscape Elements and Design Criteria, outlines the general design considerations
that will serve as the basis for evaluation of all landscape plans in Prince Georges County,
including conformance to the General Plan, the importance of preserving existing trees, and,
where appropriate, the application of sustainable landscaping techniques, landscaping for energy
conservation, and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles.
Section 4, Landscape Standards, contains the standards for on-site residential plantings, landscape
strips along streets, parking lot landscaping, screening, buffering development from streets,
buffering incompatible uses, sustainable landscaping techniques, and standards for street trees
along private streets.
Section 5, Glossary of Terms, is a glossary of terms used in the updated manual followed by the
appendices, which contain recommended plant materials, planting details and specifications, and
sample forms and checklists. In addition to the requirements of the updated manual, some
development activities in Prince Georges County are subject to the requirements of the
Woodland Conservation and Wildlife Habitat Ordinance. The Woodland Conservation and
Wildlife Habitat Ordinance requires the preservation and/or planting of woodlands. The updated
manual encourages the retention of existing trees to fulfill landscaping requirements. Protected
woodland conservation areas shown on a Type II Tree Conservation Plan may also be credited
toward fulfillment of standards contained within the updated manual.
Additional Requirements
Any land located in the Chesapeake Bay critical area within Prince Georges County is subject to
the requirements of this updated manual and the applicable provisions of the Conservation
Manual for the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area, adopted by the Prince Georges County Council
on November 17, 1987. The Conservation Manual explains the review process necessary for
developing or improving property located in the Chesapeake Bay critical area.
The Department of Parks and Recreation of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning
Commission (M-NCPPC) has established guidelines for the provision of landscaping on
parkland and in private recreational areas. Those guidelines are set forth in the Parks and
Recreation Facilities Guidelines (1983).
Questions about interpretation or use of the updated manual should be directed to the Urban
Design Section of the Development Review Division of M-NCPPC.
SECTION 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION AND PROCEDURES
1.1
Applicability
(a)
All public, private, and institutional development shall comply with the standards in this
manual, except as provided below, and as specifically exempt elsewhere in this manual
and in Section 27-121 of the Zoning Ordinance.
(b)
Existing conditions on developed sites not in conformance with the requirements of this
manual that were otherwise lawful on December 13, 2010, and not the subject of any
building or grading permit, may continue as a matter of right.
(c)
Except as stated in the exemptions cited in Sections 1.1(d) to 1.1(n), all building and
grading permits shall be in compliance with this manual. Any application not in
compliance with the requirements must apply for and obtain approval of an Alternative
Compliance application pursuant to Section 1.3, Alternative Compliance, and/or apply
for and obtain approval of a Departure from Design Standards application pursuant to
Section 27-587 of the Zoning Ordinance.
(d)
Building permits for interior or exterior rehabilitation (including, but not limited to,
faade restoration, canopies, and mechanical equipment) of an existing building that do
not involve a change of use from a lower- to a higher-intensity use category or from a
residential use to a nonresidential use (as defined in Table 4.7-1, Use Impact Categories),
do not involve an increase in impervious surface, and do not involve an increase in the
gross floor area (GFA) of the building are exempt from the requirements of Sections 4.1,
4.2, 4.3, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, and 4.10.
(e)
In addition to permits exempt as stated in 1.1(d), the following are exempt from the
requirements of Section 4.1, Residential Requirements:
(1)
Building, grading, and/or use and occupancy permits pertaining to any existing
single-family home.
(2)
Building permits that involve an increase in the GFA of a multifamily building(s)

when they result in a total cumulative increase of not more than ten percent
(10%) of the GFA of an existing building(s) on a single lot or multiple
contiguous lots as of January 1, 1990, or five thousand (5,000) square feet,
whichever is less.
(f)
Building and grading permits are subject to Section 4.2, Requirements for Landscape
Strips Along Streets, except as stated in 1.1(d) and except for the following exemptions:
(1)
Building and grading permits for a building expansion are exempt from the
requirements of Section 4.2 when they involve a cumulative increase in GFA of
less than ten percent (10%) of the GFA of an existing building(s) on a single lot
as of January 1, 1990, or five thousand (5,000) square feet, whichever is less.
(2)
Building and grading permits for a property that is subject to a required build-to
line established by a sector plan or the underlying zone that precludes the
provision of a landscape strip are exempt from the requirements of Section 4.2
for that portion of the street frontage where the building is located. In such a
case, a landscape strip shall be provided only for that portion of the property
where a building is not adjacent to the street.
(3)
Building and grading permits for properties with frontage on a special roadway
are exempt from Section 4.2 and are subject to Section 4.6, Buffering
Development from Streets.
(g)
In addition to permits exempt as stated in 1.1(d), the following are exempt from the
requirements of Section 4.3, Parking Lot Requirements:
(1)
Permits for any building renovation, expansion, or change of use that does not
necessitate an increase in the number of parking or loading spaces beyond the
number currently existing. When a building or site renovation, expansion, or
change of use results in the creation of additional impervious area, the entire
parking facility associated with the property shall be subject to Section 4.3.
(2)
Structured parking garages are exempt from Section 4.3.
(3)
Permits that involve an existing and/or proposed parking lot less than seven
thousand (7,000) square feet.
(4)
Restriping of an existing parking compound whether or not it results in an

increase in the number of parking spaces when no new impervious area is
created.
(5)
Building and grading permits for integrated shopping centers, office parks, and
restaurant parks are exempt from Section 4.3(c)(1), Parking Lot Perimeter
Landscape Strip Requirements, where access drive aisles are located such that it
is impractical to conform to this section.
(h)
All building and grading permits are subject to Section 4.6, Buffering Development from
Streets, except as stated in 1.1(d) and except for the following:
(1)
Permits pertaining to an existing single-family home.
(2)
Permits for properties that contain an environmental setting of a historic site that
abuts a special roadway.
(3)
Permits for properties that abut a master plan right-of-way that has not been
dedicated or is not required to be dedicated pursuant to an approved preliminary
plan of subdivision.
(i)
All building, grading, and use and occupancy permits are subject to Section 4.7,
Buffering Incompatible Uses, except as stated in 1.1(d) and except for those that meet all
three of the following criteria and are, therefore, exempt:
(1)
Building permits that involve a total cumulative increase in GFA of not more
than ten percent (10%) of the GFA of an existing building(s) on a single lot as of
January 1, 1990, or five thousand (5,000) square feet, whichever is less.
(2)
No part of any new structure, including any paved surface intended for parking,
loading, or access thereto but excluding a wall or fence, extends closer to an
adjacent property in a less-intense use category than would normally be allowed
by the provisions of Section 4.7.
(3)
Use and occupancy permits that do not involve a change of use from a lower- to
higher-intensity use category as defined in Table 4.7-1, Use Impact Categories,
or from a residential to a nonresidential use.
(j)
All building, grading, and/or use and occupancy permits associated with the development
of privately-owned and maintained streets are subject to Section 4.10, Street Trees Along
Private Streets, except as stated in 1.1(d) and except for the following:
(1)
Access easement authorized pursuant to Sections 24-128(b)(1), (3), (11) and

24-152(j)(2) serving four (4) or fewer lots; or
(2)
(k)
Alleys as defined by Subtitle 27 or Subtitle 24.
The temporary uses listed in Section 27-261 of the Zoning Ordinance are exempt from
the provisions of this manual and shall only be required to provide landscaping or
buffering when required pursuant to the approval provisions for the specific temporary
use.
(l)
If planting is required by other provisions of the County Code, any zoning map
amendment, special exception, subdivision plat, detailed site plan, or specific design plan
that differs from the standards set forth in this manual, such planting shall be required in
addition to the minimum amounts specified here.
(m)
In the Mixed-Use Town Center Zone, landscaping and screening shall be provided in
accordance with the approved town center development plan.
(n)
Section 4.3(c) of the Landscape Manual shall not be applicable to arenas (stadiums).
However, landscaping in the interior parking lot area of a stadium shall be provided along
all major vehicular access driveways. In addition, the District Council shall determine the
type and amount of landscaping required during the approval of any specific design plan
for an arena (stadium).
1.2
Approval Processes
(a)
A landscape plan is a required element of all detailed site plans (Zoning Ordinance,
Section 27-282(e)(15)) and all specific design plans (Section 27-527(b)(3)) and shall be
approved in accordance with the provisions in the Zoning Ordinance for approval of
those plans.
(b)
Landscape plans are required in conjunction with site plans that must be submitted with
each application for a building permit. Landscape plans of this type shall be approved in
accordance with the provisions of Part 3, Division 7, of the Zoning Ordinance for
approval of building permits.
(c)
An approved landscape plan shall be amended in accordance with the provisions of the
Zoning Ordinance requirements for amendment of the plans or permits under which the
landscape plan was originally approved, except when the plan was approved in
conjunction with a special exception.
(d)
Plant material, in addition to that which is shown on an approved landscape plan filed in
conjunction with a building, grading, or use and occupancy permit, may be installed
without requiring a revision to such plan, provided that such plant material complies with
the items and specifications set forth in Appendix 3, Plant Lists, and Appendix 4,
Landscape Specifications and Planting Details, and that the additional plant material is a
noninvasive species.
1.3
Alternative Compliance
(a)
The standards contained in this manual are intended to encourage development that is
economically viable and environmentally sound. The standards are not intended to be
arbitrary or to inhibit creative solutions. Project conditions may justify approval of
alternative methods of compliance with the standards. Conditions may arise where
normal compliance is impractical or impossible or where maximum achievement of the
purposes can only be obtained through alternative compliance. Requests for alternative
compliance may be approved for any application to which the requirements apply when
one or more of the following conditions are present:
(1)
Topography, soil, vegetation, or other site conditions are such that full
compliance with the requirements is impossible or impractical; improved
environmental quality would result from the alternative compliance.
(2)
Space limitations, unusually shaped lots, prevailing practices in the surrounding

neighborhood, in-fill sites, and improvements and redevelopment in older
communities.
(3)
Change of use on an existing site increases the buffer required by Section 4.7,
Buffering Incompatible Uses, more than it is feasible to provide.
(4)
Safety considerations make alternative compliance necessary.
(5)
An alternative compliance proposal is equal or better than normal compliance in

its ability to fulfill the design criteria in Section 3, Landscape Elements and
Design Criteria.
(b)
A proposed alternative compliance measure must be equally effective as normal

compliance in terms of quality, durability, hardiness, and ability to fulfill the design
criteria in Section 3.
(c)
Alternative compliance shall be limited to the specific project under consideration and
shall not establish precedents for approval in other cases.
(d)
A request for alternative compliance shall be submitted to the planning director (or
designee) at the time the application is submitted. In the case of those applications for
which no public hearing is required, the decision of the planning director (or designee)
will be final, unless the applicant appeals the decision to the Planning Board. In the case
of those plans for which a Planning Board or other public hearing is required:
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(1)
The request for alternative compliance will be accepted at the time of acceptance
of the companion case, unless the need for alternative compliance is not
determined until after its acceptance; in which case, the request for alternative
compliance shall be submitted as soon as possible but no less than thirty-five (35)
days prior to the scheduled hearing date for the companion case.
(2)
The planning director (or designee) will forward a recommendation to the proper
hearing authority, as soon as possible, prior to the hearing.
(e)
Requests for alternative compliance shall be accompanied by sufficient written, graphic,

and/or photographic explanation and justification to enable appropriate evaluation and
decision (see Appendix 1, Alternative Compliance Submittal Checklist).
(f)
Where compliance with this manual is not possible and there is no feasible proposal for
alternative compliance that is, in the judgment of the planning director (or designee),
equally effective as normal compliance, then the applicant may seek relief by applying
for a Departure from Design Standards in accordance with the provisions of Section 27239.01 of the Zoning Ordinance.
1.4
Plant Substitutions
(a)
An approved landscape plan in need of minor revisions to the specified plant materials
due to seasonal planting problems or lack of plant availability may be revised in
accordance with the Plant Substitution process as described in Section 1.4(b), if the
requested revisions meet the following criteria:
(1)
No reduction in the quantities of overall plant materials or native plant materials.
(2)
No significant change in size or location of plant materials.
(3)
New plant materials fall within the same general functional category of plants
(shade trees, ornamental trees, evergreens, etc.) and have the same general design
characteristics (mature height, spread, etc.) as the plant materials being replaced.
11
(4)
The proposed new plant materials are considered appropriate with respect to
elements necessary for good survival and continued growth.
(b)
A letter shall be submitted to the supervisor of the Urban Design Section requesting a
minor revision for plant substitution. The letter shall include a list of the quantities, types,
native status, and sizes of the original plants and the proposed substitution(s), the location
of the substitute plants on the plan, reference to any approved permit or site plan
numbers, and the name and telephone number of a contact person (see Appendix 2, Plant
Substitution Request Form).
(1)
A representative of the Urban Design Section will notify the applicant in a timely
manner whether or not the proposed plant materials have been found to meet the
criteria listed in Section 1.4(a)(1)-(4). Such notification will take place within
five (5) working days. If the substitutions are approved, the applicant will be
informed of any additional actions or information required to finalize and
document the plant substitution(s).
(2)
If the plant requested substitution(s) is not approved, a representative of the

Urban Design Section will supply the applicant with specific recommendations
for changes that will make the plant substitution(s) approvable.
(3)
If the requested revisions to the landscape plan do not fulfill the four criteria
listed in 1.4(a), they may not be approved in accordance with this Plant
Substitution process. In that case, the Urban Design Section will inform the
applicant of procedures necessary to formally revise the plan.
1.5
Certification of Installation of Plant Materials
Within thirty (30) days of the installation of plant materials, a landscape architect registered in the
State of Maryland shall submit written certification to the Department of Environmental
Resources or the Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) (whichever is
appropriate) stating that healthy plant materials were properly installed in accordance with the
locations, quantities, minimum sizes, and species indicated on the approved landscaped plan.
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1.6
Maintenance and Enforcement
(a)
All required landscaping, buffering, and screening shall be maintained in a healthy

condition and in accordance with the approved landscape plan. Failure to maintain or to
replace dead, diseased, or removed material as shown on an approved landscape plan
shall constitute a zoning violation and shall be subject to the penalty provisions set forth
in Subtitle 28, Division 1, of the County Code. The replacement of dead or diseased plant
material with a different plant species than that specified on the approved landscape plan
is allowed only if done in accordance with Section 1.4, Plant Substitutions.
(b)
The removal and replacement of healthy plant material approved in accordance with the
requirements is strictly prohibited, except plants under federal quarantine restrictions or
unless such landscaping poses a threat to the health, safety, and/or welfare of the public.
In cases where landscaping poses a threat to the health, safety, and/or welfare of the
public, as determined by the planning director (or designee), removal and/or replacement
of the healthy plant material is allowed only if done in accordance with the requirements
of the approval of the original plan.
1.7
Certificate of Landscape Maintenance
(a)
Building and grading permits for sites that were previously subject to the Prince
Georges County Landscape Manual or any subsequent amendments and which are
subject to any provision of Section 4.1 through 4.10 shall include a valid Certificate of
Landscape Maintenance to demonstrate compliance with Section 1.6(a).
(b)
A landscape architect registered in the State of Maryland shall certify that the site has
been inspected and that landscaping has been maintained and is in compliance with the
previously approved landscape plan in terms of quantity, location, species, and minimum
size of plant materials.
(c)
A Certificate of Landscape Maintenance is valid for two (2) years from date of signature
by the registered landscape architect. A copy of the Certificate of Landscape
Maintenance shall be included on the landscape plan and shall include the date of
13
inspection, the signature and seal of the landscape architect, and the permit number
associated with the originally approved landscape plan.
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SECTION 2 - PLAN PREPARATION
2.1
Preparation of Landscape Plans
(a)
Landscape plans for development in all zones (except for subdivisions in residential
zones containing fewer than four (4) single-family lots) shall be prepared and sealed by a
landscape architect registered in the State of Maryland.
2.2
Submittal Requirements
The submission package for a landscape plan shall include planting and site information. The
landscape plan may be submitted on a separate sheet or superimposed on a single sheet with the
site plan in cases where the site plan includes a single sheet. All symbols and site features on the
landscape plan shall be legible. The plan shall be prepared at the same scale as the associated site
plan unless otherwise authorized by the planning director (or designee). The landscape plan must
include the following information:
(a)
Planting Elements
(1)
Location, general type and quality of existing vegetation, specimen trees, and
areas of second growth; if a Forest Stand Delineation has been conducted on the
site in connection with any previous stage of development, the level of detail
concerning existing vegetation shown on the landscape plan shall be equal to that
in the Forest Stand Delineation.
(2)
Existing vegetation to be saved (indicated and noted accurately by size and

species).
(3)
Methods and details for protection of existing vegetation during construction.
(4)
Locations and labels of all proposed plants, using standard landscape

architectural graphic conventions portraying plant spreads at twenty-five (25) to
thirty (30) feet for shade trees, ten (10) feet for evergreen trees, and fifteen (15)
to twenty (20) feet for ornamental trees.
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(5)
Plant list or schedule including botanical and common names, quantities,

spacing, native status, and size at time of planting of all proposed plants.
(6)
Location and description of other landscape improvements, such as earth berms,

walls, fences, screens, sculptures, fountains, street furniture, lights, and courts or
paved areas.
(7)
Planting installation details as necessary to ensure conformance with the

standards in Appendix 4, Landscape Specifications and Planting Details.
(8)
Schedules or lists showing required and proposed quantities for items called for
by this manual (see Section 4, Landscape Standards, for examples).
(9)
Specifications for soil mixture in which plant materials are proposed to be cultivated
and/or amendments proposed to existing on-site soils in planting areas.
(b)
Site Elements
(1)
North arrow and scale.
(2)
Property lines.
(3)
Zoning and use of the subject property and all abutting properties, location of
buildings on abutting properties within fifty (50) feet of a property line, and notes
indicating the existence of all buildings on abutting properties within two
hundred (200) feet of a property line.
(4)
Name, location, existing right-of-way width, ultimate right-of-way width, and all
existing and proposed improvements within all of the abutting streets.
(5)
Features, such as existing two (2) foot contour topography, ponds, lakes, and
streams.
16
(6)
Delineation of regulated environmental features, such as one hundred (100) year

floodplains, non-tidal wetlands, regulated streams, wetlands, and associated
buffers.
(7)
Existing and proposed stormwater management facilities.
(8)
Required bufferyards, including building setbacks and width of landscape yards

from all lot lines.
(9)
Location, height, dimensions, and use of all existing and proposed buildings and
other structures and improvements (including parking lots, sidewalks, paved or
unpaved trails, and other hard surface areas, fences and walls, and recreational
equipment).
(10)
Proposed grading in two (2) foot contours with any slope steeper than three-toone (3:1) labeled.
(11)
Location of existing and proposed utilities, including water, storm drain, sanitary
sewer pipes, overhead and underground wires, utility poles and boxes, and signs.
(12)
Location of existing and proposed easements, including, but not limited to,
access easements and utility easements.
(13)
Location, size, and description of all elements required to be screened by Section

4.4, Screening Requirements.
(c)
Sample Planting Schedules
(1)
Landscape plans should include all applicable schedules from Section 4,

Landscape Standards, to document compliance with all standards established by
this manual.
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SECTION 3 - LANDSCAPE ELEMENTS AND DESIGN CRITERIA
In a well-designed landscape plan, plants are carefully selected and arranged to perform a design
function, not used to fill space. Designing such a plan is a complex process that requires taking
into account the growth preferences and habits of plants while maintaining a clear understanding
of the design problem to be solved with planting. The following information is intended to
provide guidance in this process.
3.1
Design Elements
The aesthetic qualities of plants, including form, size, texture, color, flowering habits, autumn
foliage, bark and crown characteristics, and type of fruit, should be taken into account when
selecting plants to create a pleasing appearance. Some general principles of composition that
apply to planting design are axis, symmetry, hierarchy, emphasis, balance, repetition, rhythm, and
scale.
3.2
Design Criteria: Functional and Aesthetic Values of Plants
In an effective planting design, there should be a dominant material, color, or texture to provide
unity to the composition. Accent planting can then be used to create contrast. Masses of a
predominant species with a few individual accent plants will usually produce the most satisfying
visual effects.
3.3
Landscape Functions
(a)
Visual ControlPlants may be used to:
(1)
Reduce negative effects of reflection and glare from paving or structures and
direct light from the sun, headlights, street lights, parking lot lights, floodlights,
signage, etc.
(2)
Create privacy.
(3)
Screen unsightly views.
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(b)
(4)
Provide visual relief from paved areas.
(5)
Direct views.
Architectural DefinitionPlants may be used to:
(1)
Define public and private spaces.
(2)
Delineate pedestrian and vehicular circulation.
(3)
Create pedestrian-friendly environments.
(4)
Promote compatibility between land uses by mitigating the visual, noise, and
lighting impacts of adjoining developments.
(5)
(c)
Create physical barriers.
Environmental SustainabilityPlants may be used to:
(1)
Reduce heat island, and minimize effects on microclimates by providing shading

and increasing evapotranspiration by intercepting reflected solar radiation from
some surfaces.
(2)
Modify windflow (block harsh winter wind, amplify summer breeze, and direct
snowdrift).
(3)
Filter pollution from stormwater and reduce stormwater temperature, rate, and
volume of flow.
(4)
Absorb carbon dioxide.
(5)
Improve water quality.
(6)
Modify precipitation, temperature, humidity, and moisture retention.
19
(d)
(e)
Community Health and WellnessPlants may be used to:
(1)
Promote pedestrian activity by enhancing pedestrian environments and safety.
(2)
Provide cleaner air by filtering air pollution.
Economic BenefitsPlants may be used to:
(1)
Enhance commercial viability by improving aesthetic appeal and expressing vitality

to potential customers, investors, or residents.
(2)
Increase home values.
(3)
Minimize utility costs in the summer by providing cooling through shading and
increased evapotranspiration and in the winter by preventing heat loss through

reduced wind speed and allowing for passive solar heating.
(f)
(g)
Scenic and Historic LandscapesPlants may be used to:
(1)
Protect and/or enhance scenic and historic landscapes.
(2)
Enhance and preserve scenic viewsheds.
(3)
Preserve and/or restore historically appropriate landscape plants and features.
Erosion ControlPlants may be used to control soil erosion caused by wind or

stormwater runoff.
(h)
Wildlife HabitatPlants may be used to provide cover and food for birds and other wild
animals.
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3.4
Landscape Elements
(a)
Shade Trees
Shade trees have the greatest overall impact on the built environment because of their
size, character, and permanence and should be the first element considered for a planting
design. Shade trees provide unity, character, and identity for residential neighborhoods
and can soften architecture, create a transition between the built and natural environment,
and provide a human scale for nonresidential neighborhoods. Shade trees should also be
used to:
(1)
Define major active and passive open spaces and direct both vehicular and
pedestrian movement.
(b)
(2)
Define and enhance views.
(3)
Modify climate.
(4)
Provide shade in the summer.
(5)
Reduce the impact of direct and reflected light.
(6)
Screen and buffer undesirable or incompatible views and activities.
Street Trees
Street trees may perform the same functions as shade trees but are differentiated because
they have a specific relationship to the street. They define the street space with overhead
or canopy elements (crown) and with vertical elements (trunks), establishing it as a
unified space that connects distant and sometimes disparate uses. To perform this
function, street trees should be planted close to the curb or edge of pavement so that the
canopy at maturity will extend over the street. The importance of street trees, which will
eventually become large, is greater for wider streets. Large street trees are the first, and
perhaps the only plant material, noticed while traveling down a wide road. In developing
21
areas, street trees will establish the basic structure or skeleton of an outdoor environment
and will have the most significant effect on future travelers along the road.
(c)
Ornamental Trees
Ornamental trees are generally utilized to provide an understory layer for the overhead
canopy of major shade trees. They may also be used architecturally to define minor
outdoor spaces, such as entry areas or small pedestrian use areas; provide a transitional or
softening element for architecture; provide color and variety of form; and as an accent or
major focus.
(d)
Evergreen Trees
Evergreen trees are most often utilized as a vertical architectural element, such as a wall
or screen to define space and direct views. They may also be used to provide winter
interest and variety in color and form as well as an accent and to soften architecture.
(e)
Shrub and Ground Plane Planting
Shrub and ground plane planting includes low shrubs, ground covers, and perennials.
They should be used to define minor pedestrian spaces, such as entries and sitting areas;
direct pedestrian traffic; provide color and variety; and to accent the overall landscape
design. In accordance with sustainable landscaping principles (see Section 3.5(b),
Sustainable Landscaping), shrub and ground plane planting may be installed to control
erosion, enhance the absorption of stormwater runoff, and reduce lawn maintenance and
the need for application of chemical fertilizers.
Plant material should be massed in beds rather than planted as independent units on the
lawn, and it should relate to the architecture (e.g., beds of ground cover related to
windows and massing of shrubbery at entrances).
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(f)
Screening and Buffering Plantings
Screening is required for a number of unsightly uses (see Section 4.4, Screening
Requirements). As such, vegetative screening may consist primarily of evergreen trees
and shrubs, but finely branched deciduous trees and shrubs planted in masses or tightly
spaced may also be considered. Because of their density and opacity, evergreen trees
often create the effect of a large wall. Other screening elements, such as walls, fences,
and berms, should be carefully designed to avoid unnecessarily obstructing views,
restricting light and air, or creating hazardous blind spots.
Where bufferyard planting is required (see Sections 4.4, Screening Requirements and 4.7,
Buffering Incompatible Uses), a combination of evergreens, deciduous plant materials,
walls and/or fencing may be used to achieve the desired effect. When a linear screen is
required, such as along a property line, the screen planting may be staggered,
naturalistically designed, or laid out employing a more formal approach using, for
example, a hedge or a formal planting scheme and fencing.
3.5
Other Landscape Design Considerations
Other landscape design considerations include, but are not limited to, the existing development
pattern of and future vision for the area; use of sustainable landscaping; energy conservation
measures; preservation of existing trees in coordination with the requirements of the Woodland
Conservation and Wildlife Habitat Ordinance; safety considerations, including CPTED principles;
and environmental settings for historic sites.
(a)
Development Patterns Based on the General Plan
Two important landscape design considerations are the existing development pattern of
and the future vision for an area. Prince Georges County has a variety of development
patterns ranging from urban (typically found inside the Capital Beltway) to rural (mainly
located in the far southern and eastern areas of the county). This manual recognizes the
differing landscaping needs of the countys various development patterns and seeks to
further the vision and policies of the General Plan for those areas.
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The plan established and delineated three tiers that correspond to the different
development patterns in the county and to their desired levels and forms of development.
A list of tiers follows, along with a brief description of the location and character of each:
Developed TierLocated between the countys boundary with the District of

Columbia and the Capital Beltway, the Developed Tier is the most densely
populated and built out part of the county and contains most of the pedestrian,
bicycle, and transit system capacity. The vision for the Developed Tier is a
network of sustainable, transit-supporting, mixed-use, pedestrian-oriented,
medium- to high-density neighborhoods.
Developing TierThe Developing Tier encompasses the middle section of the

county, which has been most subject to recent suburban expansion. It is an
evolving pattern of farms, residential subdivisions, employment parks, and
automobile-oriented commercial centers. The vision for the Developing Tier is to
maintain a pattern of low- to moderate-density suburban residential communities,
distinct commercial centers, and employment areas that are increasingly transit
serviceable.
Centers and Corridor NodesWithin the Developed and Developing Tiers, the plan
designates centers and corridors within which more intense development is
encouraged to capitalize on existing public investments in transportation facilities.
The vision for the centers and corridors is mixed-residential and nonresidential
uses at moderate to high densities and intensities, with a strong emphasis on
pedestrian- and transit-oriented development. A Corridor Node is a concentrated,
higher-intensity, mixed-use location within a one-quarter mile of a major
intersection or major transit stop along a designated corridor to be developed in a
pedestrian-oriented form. Specific corridor nodes are identified through the sector
and master plan processes.
Rural TierThe Rural Tier comprises the eastern and southern portions of the
county in the Patuxent River, Potomac River, and Mattawoman Creek
watersheds. Characterized by fine landscapes, most of the countys remaining
farms, extensive woodlands, large public land holdings, numerous streams, and
24
diverse wildlife habitat, the Rural Tier is the most scenic part of the county. The
vision for the Rural Tier is to protect large amounts of woodland and wildlife
habitat, encourage recreation and agricultural pursuits, and preserve the rural
character and vistas.
This manual recognizes this range of development patterns and establishes standards
designed to address each areas unique constraints and opportunities and to help
implement the visions set forth in the plan.
(b)
Sustainable Landscaping
Sustainable landscaping works in tandem with nature to create healthy and viable
environments. By implementing environmentally sensitive design techniques, low impact
development methods, and incorporating noninvasive native plants, sustainable
landscaping reduces soil erosion, air and water pollution, creates and maintains wildlife
habitat, and fosters healthy living conditions.
Key sustainable landscaping techniques include, but are not limited to:
(1)
Adopting a broader vision for landscaping, taking into consideration the natural
context.
(2)
Minimizing the use of supplemental watering, and adopting more efficient

watering techniques, when necessary, such as drip and spot irrigation.
(3)
Using plants native to the area or native plants that have adapted to the areas
growing conditions, soil, and climate typically requires less maintenance and
supports local wildlife.
(4)
Using buffer plantings to create wind screens, wildlife habitats, and for
protection of less hardy plants.
(5)
Reducing the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
25
(6)
Minimizing bare soil, and stabilizing slopes by planting ground covers.
(7)
Implementing sustainable mowing practices, and reducing lawn waste.
(8)
Reducing the amount of impervious surface used in landscaped areas through the
use of alternative hard surfaces with permeable joints, such as stepping stones,
brick walkways, cobblestones, and decks.
(9)
Mixing species in a massed planting encourages natural predators and provides

nectar sources throughout the year.
(c)
Landscaping for Energy Conservation
When preparing a landscape plan, consideration should be given to the proper selection
and placement of tree species near buildings to minimize building heating and cooling
requirements. When located appropriately, trees of adequate size, quality, canopy, and
form can decrease energy consumption in buildings in the summer by reducing heat
absorption and in the winter by allowing for passive solar heating and providing
protection from the wind. Maximum cooling savings will result when deciduous trees are
planted to shade the southern and/or western wall and windows of buildings. To shade
the roof or wall of a one-family residential structure, for example, trees that will mature
to a medium-to-large size should be planted within thirty (30) feet of the structure.
Smaller trees can also be planted closer to the house and used to shade walls and window
areas.
(d)
Preservation of Existing Trees
The importance of saving existing individual trees and groves of trees in developing areas
cannot be overstated. Existing trees, regardless of size, should be preserved whenever
possible. Particular efforts should be made to retain healthy trees or vegetation that have
special character due to size, age, habit, or historical importance or that have special
value as screening or buffering elements.
26
If possible, trees selected for preservation should be identified prior to site design.
Roadways should be sited where they would cause the least damage to valuable stands,
and original topography should be followed as closely as possible to minimize grading
within the critical root zone of trees to be retained.
Many factors must be weighed in the decision to preserve trees and vegetation, including
existing and proposed grading conditions, age, condition, type of trees, percentage of
critical root zone that can remain undisturbed, and location of site improvements and
utility connections.
In general, the critical root zone is a circle delineated around each tree with a radius equal to
one (1) foot per inch of diameter at breast height (dbh) of the tree. If seventy percent (70%)
or more of the critical root zone area can remain undisturbed and at original grades,
depending upon the species and condition, a tree can be retained without special
management. If disturbance of between fifty and sixty-nine percent (50% and 69%) of the
critical root zone is proposed, depending on species and condition, a careful evaluation of
the tree by a licensed arborist and a registered landscape architect in the State of Maryland
and a retention management plan should be prepared to evaluate whether the tree can be
successfully retained. Disturbance of more than fifty percent (50%) of the critical root zone
is detrimental to the retention of a tree, except under very unusual circumstances.
Credit may be given for existing shade trees preserved when they are in a location and of a
nature and diameter at breast height (dbh) if they contribute to the objectives and are in
accordance with the design guidelines of the standards to which they are being credited.
(e)
Coordination with the Woodland Conservation and Wildlife Habitat Ordinance
In addition to the requirements of the Landscape Manual, many development activities in

Prince Georges County are subject to the requirements of the Woodland Conservation and
Wildlife Habitat Ordinance, which was enacted in September 2010.
This manual encourages the retention of existing trees to fulfill landscaping requirements.
Trees within areas that are protected woodland conservation areas shown on a Type II Tree
Conservation Plan may be credited toward the fulfillment requirements if they meet the
27
diameter at breast height size and quantity requirements of the standards to which they are
being credited. When a woodland conservation area is proposed to be counted toward the
fulfillment of a requirement and a Woodland Conservation requirement, both the landscape
plan and the tree conservation plan must demonstrate compliance with the associated
requirements.
(f)
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)
Landscape design must be sensitive to public safety concerns and the perception of a
crime-free environment. CPTED focuses on creating environments that are both safe for
residents and visitors and deterrents to potential criminals. Through its design and
landscaping principles, CPTED facilitates natural surveillance of the private and public
properties, open spaces, and roadways that make up neighborhoods and deters criminals
from using these areas for illegal activities.
Whenever possible, CPTED recommends avoiding the use of landscaping and screening
elements that create blind spots or hiding places. This can be achieved by ensuring that
shade trees have a minimum clear height of eight (8) feet and that all plantings, screenwalls,
and fences are carefully selected and sited, especially in proximity to major site accesses
and other points of entry. CPTED also underscores the importance of maintaining and
keeping landscaped areas free of litter, as a signal that residents and property owners have a
vested interest in the area and will not tolerate illegal activities.
(g)
Residential Design
Planting plans for subdivisions should be comprehensive for a group of lots or an entire
project rather than sample model plantings repeated many times over. Generally, trees
may be grouped to simulate natural stands or located symmetrically. In single-family
subdivisions, the relative location of trees should vary from lot to lot. On corner lots, care
should be taken to use plant materials to provide privacy for backyards and attractive
views from the intersection.
Buffering is encouraged for rear yards that back up to each other and are visible from
other rear yards. Screening elements may be located on individual lots or on intervening
28
common open space. It is desirable that screening fences and walls be built with materials
compatible with those of the overall subdivision design.
Subdivisions that include common open space should provide landscaping in the open
space. Plant material can be used to define space and circulation, provide shade, preserve
natural areas for passive recreation and environmental needs, and screen parking lots and
other incompatible uses from the residential areas. The quantity of trees allocated to
common open space shall not have the effect of eliminating the landscaping devoted to
individual lots.
(h)
Parking Lot Design
Planting islands should be used to define circulation patterns and parking bays. They
should also be used to soften large expanses of paving. In general, islands should be
distributed throughout the parking lot and should be placed once every ten (10) or so
spaces. In large parking lots, fewer but larger islands may be used to provide greater
visual relief and a healthier environment for tree growth but will require an alternative
compliance application to be submitted and approved.
Trees in or at the edge of parking lots should be species that branch no lower than twelve
(12) feet from the ground at maturity to allow cars and trucks to circulate beneath the
canopy without causing damage.
Shrubs in or at the edge of the parking lot should provide a low, two (2) to four (4) foot
year-round screen for paving and cars. Shrub varieties should either be evergreen or, if
deciduous, have a dense, twiggy growth habit for winter screening and an attractive yearround appearance.
Good visibility in the parking lot is important, both for security and traffic safety reasons.
Plants or other elements that restrict visibility, such as tall shrubs, low-branching trees,
and tall fencing or walls should be avoided. Plant materials at vehicular entrances should
be located to maintain safe sight distances.
29
Plants in parking lots are subject to many adverse conditions and are not likely to receive
consistent care. Accordingly, plant varieties that should be selected are ones which are
moderate to slow growing, require little maintenance, tolerate such conditions as sun,
wind, drought, glare, reflected heat, salt and chemicals, and restricted planting spaces.
(i)
Environmental Settings of Historic Sites
The environmental setting of an historic site is an essential element of its historic value.
The environmental setting is the extent of the property protected as a historic site on
which the structure is located, unless the environmental setting has been reduced or
enlarged by the action of the Prince Georges County Historic Preservation Commission
after careful consideration of the historic and natural features and landscape character of
the property. Many historic sites in Prince Georges County are still rural in character.
The integrity of these sites should not be compromised by incompatible adjacent
development. Developing properties adjacent to designated historic sites should minimize
adverse visual impact on the historic site and its environmental setting by sensitive siting
of built elements, providing buffer areas that preserve existing trees, or landscaping to be
as compatible as possible with the environmental setting.
30
SECTION 4 - LANDSCAPE STANDARDS
4.1
Residential Requirements
(a)
Purposes and Objectives
(1)
Establish a visual relationship between residential structures and their

surrounding environments.
(2)
Reduce the energy needs of residential structures by landscaping for energy

conservation.
(3)
Create privacy by buffering residential structures from each other.
(4)
Reduce the negative effects of reflection and glare from paving, structures, or
direct light from the sun, headlights, street lights, etc.
(5)
Enhance the aesthetic appearance of residential neighborhoods to increase

individual property values.
(b)
Design Guidelines
(1)
Planting schemes for subdivisions should be comprehensively designed for an

entire project rather than sample model plantings repeated many times over.
(2)
On-lot residential plantings should be used to accent corners of intersecting

streets and may be used to identify individual streets.
(3)
In single-family subdivisions, the relative location of trees should vary from lot
to lot. On corner lots, care should be taken to use plant materials to provide
privacy for backyards and attractive views from the street.
(4)
Subdivisions that include common open space should provide landscaping in the
open space.
31
(5)
Plant material should be used to define space and circulation, provide shade,
enhance natural areas for passive recreation and environmental needs, and screen
parking lots and other incompatible uses from the residential areas.
(6)
The quantity of trees allocated to common open space should not have the effect
of eliminating the landscaping devoted to individual lots.
(7)
Deciduous shade trees should be planted on the south and/or west sides of
residential structures to provide shade in the summer months and reduce the
amount of energy required to maintain indoor air temperatures. Likewise, since
deciduous trees lose their leaves in the fall, they allow for passive solar heating
of structures in the winter months (see discussion of Landscaping for Energy
Conservation in Section 3).
(8)
Evergreen trees should be planted on the north and/or west sides of residential
structures to provide protection from winter winds by reducing wind speed and
creating dead air space for insulation around structures, both of which contribute
toward maintaining indoor air temperature (see Section 3.5(c), Landscaping for
Energy Conservation).
(c)
Requirements
(1)
One-Family Detached
All residential development shall comply with the following standards:
(A)
All one-family detached lots that are forty thousand (40,000) square feet
or larger shall be planted as follows:
(i)
Plant a minimum of four (4) major shade trees and three (3)
ornamental or evergreen trees per lot.
32
(ii)
At least two (2) of the major shade trees shall be planted on the
south and/or west side and within thirty (30) feet, where feasible,
of the residential structure.
(iii)
At least one (1) of the required major shade trees and one (1) of
the ornamental trees shall be located in the front yard or, in the
case of a corner lot, in the front or side yard facing the street.
This shade tree may also count toward fulfillment of the
landscaping for energy conservation requirement in
4.1(c)(1)(A)(ii), if located in accordance with such requirement.
(B)
All one-family detached lots that are twenty thousand (20,000) square feet
or larger but less than forty thousand (40,000) square feet shall be planted
as follows:
(i)
Plant a minimum of four (4) major shade trees and three (3)
(ii)
At least one (1) of the major shade trees shall be planted on the
(iii)
At least one (1) of the required major shade trees shall be located
in the front yard or, in the case of a corner lot, in the front or side
yard facing the street. This shade tree may also count toward
fulfillment of the landscaping for energy conservation
requirement in 4.1(c)(1)(B)(ii), if located in accordance with
such requirement.
(C)
All one-family detached lots that are nine thousand, five hundred (9,500)
square feet or larger but less than twenty thousand (20,000) square feet
shall be planted as follows:
33
(i)
Plant a minimum of three (3) major shade trees and two (2)
(ii)
At least one (1) of the major shade trees shall be planted on the
(iii)
At least one (1) of the required major shade, ornamental, or

evergreen trees shall be located in the front yard or, in the case of
a corner lot, in the front or side yard facing the street. This shade
tree may also count toward fulfillment of the landscaping for
energy conservation requirement in 4.1(c)(1)(C)(ii), if located in
accordance with such requirement.
(D)
All one-family detached lots that are smaller than nine thousand, five
hundred (9,500) square feet shall be planted as follows:
(i)
Plant a minimum of two (2) major shade trees and two (2)
(ii)
At least one (1) of the required major shade, ornamental, or

evergreen trees shall be located in the front yard or, in the case of
a corner lot, in the front or side yard facing the street.
(E)
An existing shade tree, except for an invasive species, exceeding two and
one-half (2-1/2) inches diameter at breast height (dbh) located on an
individual lot within seventy-five (75) feet of a dwelling unit may be
counted toward fulfillment of the requirement for a tree on that lot,
provided that the size (dbh), genus, condition, and location of each tree to
be counted toward the fulfillment of this requirement is shown on the
landscape plan. The site and landscape plan must also demonstrate that a
minimum of seventy percent (70%) of the critical root zone of such tree
will remain undisturbed.
34
(F)
When a buffer strip as required by Section 4.6, Buffering Development

from Streets, is located on a single-family detached lot, the following shall
apply:
(i)
If less than twenty-five percent (25%) of the area of the lot is

occupied by the buffer strip, none of the trees required by
Section 4.1 may be located in the buffer strip.
(ii)
If more than twenty-five percent (25%) of the area of the lot is

occupied by the buffer strip, one (1) of the shade trees or two (2)
of the ornamental or evergreen trees required by Section 4.1,
Residential Requirements, may be located in the buffer strip and
may also count toward fulfillment of the buffer strip
requirement.
(2)
Townhouses, One-Family Semi-Detached, Two-Family, and Three-Family

Dwellings Arranged Horizontally
(A)
Plant a minimum of one and one-half (1.5) major shade trees and one (1)
ornamental or evergreen tree per dwelling unit located on individual lots
and/or common open space to best fulfill the objectives and design
guidelines of this section.
(B)
An existing shade tree, except for an invasive species, exceeding two and
one-half (2-1/2) inches diameter at breast height (dbh) located in the
common area or open space within seventy-five (75) feet of a dwelling
unit may be counted toward fulfillment of the requirement for a tree,
provided that the size (dbh), genus, condition, and location of each tree to
be counted toward the fulfillment of this requirement is shown on the
landscape plan. The site and landscape plan must also demonstrate that a
minimum of seventy percent (70%) of the critical root zone of such tree
will remain undisturbed.
35
(3)
Two-Family and Three-Family dwellings Arranged Vertically
Plant a minimum of two (2) major shade trees and one and one-half (1.5)
ornamental or evergreen trees per building located in common open space to best
fulfill the objectives and design guidelines of this section.
(4)
Multifamily Dwellings
(A)
For multifamily dwellings located in the Developing and Rural Tiers,

plant a minimum of one (1) major shade tree per one thousand, six
hundred (1,600) square feet or fraction of green area provided.
(B)
For multifamily dwellings located in the Developed Tier and/or Corridor

Nodes or Centers, plant a minimum of one (1) major shade tree per one
thousand (1,000) square feet or fraction of green area provided.
(C)
The following areas shall be excluded when determining the total amount
of green area provided: lakes or other water areas, any required parking
lot landscape strip adjacent to a public right-of-way, and any required
interior parking lot green area. Trees that count toward fulfillment of the
parking lot perimeter requirement may be counted toward fulfillment of
this requirement. Trees shall be located to best fulfill the objectives and
design guidelines of this section.
(D)
Up to one-quarter (1/4) of the number of required shade trees may be

substituted on a two-to-one (2:1) basis by the use of ornamental or
evergreen trees.
(E)
An existing shade tree, except for invasive species, exceeding two and
one-half (2-1/2) inches diameter at breast height (dbh) located anywhere
in the green area on the site, except in the floodplain, may be counted on a
one-to-one (1:1) basis for up to one hundred percent (100%) of the shade
tree requirement on that site, provided that the size (dbh), genus,
condition, and location of each tree to be counted toward the fulfillment of
36
this requirement is shown on the landscape plan. The landscape plan must
also demonstrate that a minimum of seventy percent (70%) of the critical
root zone of such trees will remain undisturbed.
Table 4.1-1
On-Site Residential Planting Requirements
Residential Type
Minimum number
of Shade Trees
Minimum number
of Ornamental or
Evergreen Trees
One-Family Detached Lots

40,000 sq. ft. or larger
4 per lot
3 per lot

20,00039,999 sq. ft.
4 per lot
3 per lot

9,50019,999 sq. ft.
3 per lot
2 per lot

smaller than 9,500 sq. ft.
2 per lot
2 per lot
Townhouses, One-Family SemiDetached, Two-Family, ThreeFamily Arranged Horizontally
1.5 per dwelling
1 per dwelling
Total number of trees

to be located on lots and/or
in common open space
Two-Family, Three-Family
Arranged Vertically
2 per building
1.5 per building
Total number of trees

to be located on lots and/or in
common open space
Located in the Developing and
Rural Tiers
1 per 1,600 sq. ft.

or fraction of
green area
See Section 4.1(c)(4)

for explanation of green area
and permissible plant
substitutions
Located in the Developed Tier
and/or Corridor Nodes or
Centers
1 per 1,000 sq. ft.

or fraction of
green area
See Section 4.1(c)(4)

for explanation of green area
and permissible plant
substitutions
37
Notes
(d)
Demonstrating Compliance
The landscape plan shall include a schedule as provided below demonstrating compliance
with the requirements of this section.
Sample Schedule 4.1-1

Residential Requirements for One-Family Detached Lots
1)
Lot size range:
_____square feet
2)
Number of lots:
_____lots
3)
Total number of trees required per lot:
_____shade trees
_____ornamental/evergreen trees
4)
Total number of trees provided:
_____shade trees
_____ornamental trees
_____evergreen trees
_____existing shade trees (min. 2.5
inches dbh and located within 75 feet of a
dwelling unit)
5)
Number of shade trees required per lot to be located on the south
_____shade trees
and/or west side of the residential structure:

6)
Total number of shade trees provided on the south and/or west
_____shade trees
side of structures*:
7)
Number of trees required per lot to be located in the front yard:
_____shade trees
8)
Total number of trees provided in front yards*:
_____shade trees
*Shade trees planted on the south and/or west side and within 30 feet of a residential structure, which are also
located in the front yard may, be counted in both six and eight above.
38

Residential Requirements for Townhouses, One-Family Semi-Detached,
and Two-Family Dwellings Arranged Horizontally:
1)
Number of dwelling units:
_____units
2)
Number of trees required per dwelling unit:
1.5 shade trees

1
3)
Total number of trees required:
ornamental/evergreen trees
_____shade trees
4)
_____shade trees
(on individual lots and/or in common open space)
_____existing shade trees (min. 2.5 inches dbh and
located within 75 feet of a dwelling unit)

Residential Requirements for Two-Family and Three-Family Dwellings Arranged Vertically
1)
Number of buildings:
2)
Number of trees required per building:
_____buildings
2
shade trees
1.5 ornamental/evergreen trees

3)
_____shade trees
(in common open space)
_____existing shade trees (min. 2.5 inches dbh and
located within 75 feet of a dwelling unit)
39
Sample Schedule for Section 4.1-4

Residential Requirements for Multifamily
1)
General Plan designation:
_____Rural or Developing Tier (1 shade tree per 1,600

square feet of green space provided)
_____Developed Tier and/or Corridor Node or Center
(1 shade tree per 1,000 square feet of green space provided)
2)
Green space provided:
_____square feet
3)
Number of shade trees required:
_____shade trees
4)
_____shade trees
_____evergreen trees (ornamental and evergreen trees may be
substituted for shade trees at a rate of 2:1, not to exceed 25%
of total shade tree requirement)
_____existing shade trees (min. 2.5 inches dbh and located
within green area but outside of floodplain)
40
4.2
Requirements for Landscape Strips Along Streets
(a)
(1)
Promote pedestrian activity by establishing human scale and fostering a safe,

pedestrian-friendly streetscape.
(2)
Clearly delineate the boundaries of streets and parking facilities adjacent to

streets.
(3)
Enhance a businesss commercial viability by improving its aesthetic appeal as

viewed from the street to potential customers, investors, or passersby.
(4)
(b)
Improve the appearance of parking facilities as viewed from streets.
Design Guidelines
(1)
The landscape strip should not include any paved area, except pedestrian
sidewalks or trails that cross the landscape strip.
(2)
Trees at the edge of streets should be major shade trees that can be trimmed so
that at maturity cars and trucks can circulate beneath the canopy without causing
damage. Major shade trees are listed in Appendix 3, Plant Lists.
(3)
Shrubs in the landscape strip adjacent to a parking lot should provide a low, two
(2) to four (4) foot high, year-round screen for paving and cars. Shrub varieties
should either be evergreen or, if deciduous, have a dense, twiggy growth habit for
winter screening and an attractive year-round appearance.
(4)
Plants within landscape strips are subject to many adverse conditions and are not
likely to receive consistent care. Accordingly, plant varieties that require little
maintenance and tolerate such conditions as sun, wind, drought, glare, reflected
heat, salt and chemicals should be selected.
41
(c)
Requirements
(1)
For properties with frontage on a Special Roadway, the requirements of

Section 4.6(c)(2), Buffering Development from Special Roadways, supersede the
requirements of this section.
(2)
For all nonresidential uses in any zone and for all parking lots, a landscape strip,
as described in Section 4.2(c)(3)-(5), shall be provided on the property abutting
all public and private streets. The landscape strip may not include any paved area
except pedestrian sidewalks or trails that cross the landscape strip.
(3)
Developing Tier, Developed Tier, Centers and Corridor Nodes
(A)
The following landscape strip treatments may be used singly or in

combination:
(i)
Option 1-Provide a minimum ten (10) foot wide landscape strip

to be planted with a minimum of one (1) shade tree and ten (10)
shrubs per thirty-five (35) linear feet of frontage, excluding
driveway openings (see Figure 4.2-1); or
Figure 4.2-1 Developing Tier, Developed Tier, Centers and Corridor NodesOption 1
(ii)
Option 2-Provide a landscape strip that is a minimum of ten (10)

feet wide and has an average width of at least fifteen (15) feet.
Provide planting within the strip at the rate of one (1) shade tree
42
and five (5) shrubs per thirty-five (35) linear feet of frontage
excluding driveway openings (see Figure 4.2-2); or
(iii)
Option 3-Provide a minimum twenty-five (25) foot wide strip of

noninvasive existing trees. (see Figure 4.2-3); or
Figure 4.2-3 Developing Tier, Developed Tier, Centers and Corridor NodesOption 3,
Rural TierOption 2
(iv)
Option 4-Provide a minimum four (4) foot wide landscape strip

abutting the street adjacent to three (3) to four (4) foot high
brick, stone, or finished stamped concrete masonry wall. The
wall shall be located adjacent to, but entirely outside, the four (4)
foot wide landscape strip. Provide planting within the strip at the
43
rate of one (1) shade tree per thirty-five (35) linear feet of
frontage, excluding driveway openings (see Figure 4.2-4).
(B)
Where the plantings required in 4.2(c)(3)(A)(i) or 4.2(c)(3)(A)(ii) would

result in an inappropriate or impractical design due to underground
utilities, overhead wires, or other factors, the following shall apply:
(i)
Underground Utilities: The landscape strip should be located

outside the public utility easement. If landscaping is proposed
and approved within the public utility easement, the owner shall
maintain or replace the plant material as stated in Section 1.6,
Maintenance and Enforcement.
(ii)
Overhead Utilities: Two (2) ornamental trees may be substituted

for one (1) shade tree.
44
(4)
Rural Tier
(A)
The following landscape strip treatments may be used singly or in

combination:
(i)
Option 1-Provide a minimum twenty (20) foot wide landscape

strip to be planted with a minimum of one (1) shade tree and ten
(10) shrubs per thirty-five (35) linear feet of frontage, excluding
driveway openings (see Figure 4.2-5). If a public utility
easement is proposed or exists along the street frontage, then
plant materials shall be placed outside the public utility
easement.
Figure 4.2-5 Required Landscape Strip: Rural TierOption 1
(ii)

noninvasive existing trees (see Figure 4.2-3).
(5)
I-3 Zone
(A)
If a property is located in the I-3 Zone, the width of the required landscape
strip shall be as required by Section 27-474 of the Zoning Ordinance. The
plant materials proposed within the landscape strip shall be shown on a
detailed site plan approved by the Planning Board in accordance with
45
Section 27-471(d) of the Zoning Ordinance but shall not be less in

quantity than required by Section 4.2(c)(3)(A)(i).
(d)
The landscape plan shall include a schedule as provided in Schedule 4.2-1 that
demonstrates compliance with the requirements of this section.

Requirements for Landscape Strips Along Streets
Linear feet of street frontage, excluding driveway entrances:

1)
General Plan Designation:
_____Developing Tier
_____Rural Tier
_____Developed Tier,
Corridor Node or Center
2)
Option Selected:
1, 2, 3, or 4:_____
1 or 2: _____
3)
Is there a public utility easement
property?
_____Yes
_____No
Number of plants required:
_____shade trees
_____shade trees
_____shrubs
_____shrubs
_____25-foot-wide strip of
existing trees
existing trees
_____shade trees
_____shade trees
_____ornamental/evergreen
_____ornamental/evergreen
_____trees
_____trees
_____shrubs
_____shrubs
existing trees
existing trees
along the frontage of the
4)
5)
46
4.3
Parking Lot Requirements
(a)
(1)
Enhance the appearance of surface parking facilities as viewed from the street
and adjacent compatible uses.
(2)
Provide shade and visual relief within parking facilities.
(3)
Use green space and trees to delineate vehicular and pedestrian travel-ways
within parking facilities.
(b)
(4)
Minimize the heat island effect created by large expanses of pavement.
(5)
Provide healthy soil volumes to support the growth of trees.
Design Guidelines
(1)
Planting islands should be used to define circulation patterns, break up rows of

parking, and to soften the visual impact of large expanses of pavement.
(2)
In general, impervious areas within parking lots should be evenly distributed

throughout the parking lot to maximize shading.
(3)
Islands should be provided at both ends of parking rows to protect parked cars
from moving vehicles and to ensure more even distribution of shade throughout
the parking lot.
(4)
Trees in or at the edge of parking lots should be major shade trees that can be
trimmed so that at maturity cars and trucks may circulate beneath the canopy
without causing damage. Major shade trees are listed in Appendix 3, Plant Lists.
(5)
Good visibility in the parking lot is important, both for neighborhood security
and traffic safety. The use of landscaping elements and plants that restrict
47
visibility, such as tall shrubs, evergreen trees, and low-branching trees, should be
avoided.
(6)
The use and location of plant materials at vehicular entrances should be placed to
maintain safe sight distances.
(7)
Plants in parking lots are subject to many adverse conditions and are not likely to
receive consistent care. Accordingly, principles of sustainability should be
considered when selecting plant materials. Specifically, plant material should be
moderate-to-slow growing, require little maintenance, and tolerate such
conditions as sun, wind, drought, glare, reflected heat, salt and chemicals, and
restricted planting spaces.
(8)
Planting spaces should be large enough to allow for healthy tree growth and
should be protected from car overhangs and opening car doors.
(c)
Requirements
The following requirements apply to all parking lots, except those provided for, and on
the same lot with, one-family dwellings.
(1)
Parking Lot Perimeter Landscape Strip Requirements
(A)
When the adjacent property is an incompatible use as defined in

Section 4.7, Buffering Incompatible Uses, parking lots shall be set back
and buffered from adjacent property lines in accordance with those
requirements and are not subject to this section. In all other cases, the
perimeter of a proposed parking lot adjacent to a property line shall be
treated as indicated in Section 4.3(c)(1)(C)-(E).
(B)
For the purposes of this section, a parking lot shall be considered adjacent
to a property line for that portion of the lot that is within thirty (30) feet of
the property line, and no building is located between the lot and the
property line (see Figure 4.3-1).
48
Figure 4.3-1 Parking Lot Within 30 Feet of Property Line
(C)
Developed Tier, Corridor Nodes and Centers:
(i)
Option 1-Provide a minimum three (3) foot wide landscape strip

between the parking lot and any adjacent property line with
fifteen (15) shrubs per thirty-five (35) linear feet of parking lot
adjacent to a property line to create a solid hedge (see Figure
4.3-2); or
49
(ii)
Option 2-Provide a minimum three (3) foot wide landscape strip

between the parking lot and any adjacent property line with a
three (3) to four (4) foot high masonry wall (see Figure 4.3-3); or
(iii)
Option 3-Provide a perimeter landscape strip in accordance with

the requirements for the Developing Tier, as stated in Section
4.3(c)(1)(D)(i)-(ii).
(D)
Developing Tier
(i)
Option 1-Provide a minimum five (5) foot wide landscape strip

between the parking lot and any adjacent property line. Within
this landscape strip, provide one (1) tree and three (3) shrubs per
thirty-five (35) linear feet of parking lot adjacent to a property
line. (This does not mean that shade trees must be located thirtyfive (35) feet on center.) Any existing shade tree, except an
invasive species, exceeding four (4) inches diameter at breast
height (dbh) and located within fifteen (15) feet of the edge of
the parking lot may count at a rate of one-to-one (1:1) toward
fulfillment of this requirement, provided that seventy percent
(70%) of the critical root zone is undisturbed. Shrubs shall not be
planted within the critical root zone, and the shrub requirement
shall be waived when preserving existing vegetation. (See Figure
4.3-4); or
50
Figure 4.3-4 Developing TierOption 1
(ii)

noninvasive existing trees (see Figure 4.3-5).
Figure 4.3-5 Developing TierOption 2
(E)
Rural Tier:
(i)
Option 1-Provide a minimum ten (10) foot wide landscape strip

between the parking lot and any adjacent property line. Within
51
this landscape strip, provide one (1) shade tree and five (5)
shrubs per thirty-five (35) linear feet of parking lot adjacent to a
property line. (This does not mean that shade trees must be
located thirty-five (35) feet on center.) Any existing shade tree
(except an invasive species) exceeding four (4) inches diameter
at breast height (dbh) that is located within fifteen (15) feet of
the edge of the parking lot may count at a rate of one-to-one
(1:1) toward fulfillment of this requirement, provided that
seventy percent (70%) or more of the critical root zone is
undisturbed. Shrubs shall not be planted within the critical root
zone, and the shrub requirement shall be waived when
preserving existing vegetation (see Figure 4.3-6); or
Figure 4.3-6 Rural TierOption 1
(ii)

existing noninvasive trees between the parking lot and any
adjacent property line (see Figure 4.3-5).
52
(2)
Parking Lot Interior Planting Requirements
(A)
The minimum Parking Lot Interior Planting requirements shall be

calculated as a percentage of the parking lot area based on the size of the
parking lot as shown in Table 4.3-1, Parking Lot Interior Planting
Requirements. For purposes of computing the total area of any parking
lot, all areas within the perimeter of the parking lot shall be counted,
including planting islands, curbed areas, corner areas, parking spaces,
aisles, and all vehicular surfaces. Landscaped areas situated outside of the
parking lot, such as perimeter areas, landscape strips, and areas
surrounding buildings, shall not be counted as an interior planting area
(see Figure 4.3-7).
Figure 4.3-7 Parking Lot Area
53
Table 4.3-1
Parking Lot Interior Planting Requirements
Percent of Interior
Parking Lot Area
Planting Area Required
06,999 square feet
7,00049,999 sq. ft.
50,00099,999 sq. ft.
10
100,000149,999 sq. ft.
13
150,000 sq. ft. or larger
15
(B)
At least one (1) shade tree shall be provided for each three hundred (300)
square feet (or fraction) of interior landscape area provided. These trees
shall have a clear trunk at least six (6) feet above finished grade level.
(C)
If a parking lot less than seven thousand (7,000) square feet is built
without interior landscaping and, later, additional spaces are added so that
the total size of the lot is greater than seven thousand (7,000) square feet,
then the percentage of interior planting area required shall be calculated
for the entire parking lot.
(D)
Planting spaces must be large enough to allow for healthy tree growth and
must be protected from car overhangs and opening car doors.
(i)
A minimum of one hundred sixty (160) square feet of contiguous

pervious land area shall be provided for each tree. No tree
planting area shall be less than six (6) feet wide in any
dimension.
(ii)
A curb or wheel stop shall be provided for all parking spaces

abutting planting or pedestrian areas to protect those areas from
overhanging by parked vehicles.
54
(iii)
Planting islands that are parallel to parking spaces on both sides

shall be a minimum of nine (9) feet wide to allow car doors to
swing open (see Figure 4.3-8).
Figure 4.3-8 Minimum Width of Landscape Island Parallel to Spaces (parking on both sides)
(iv)
In cases where a planting island is perpendicular to parking

spaces and the spaces head into the planting island on both sides,
the island shall be a minimum of nine (9) feet wide to allow for
bumper overhang (see Figure 4.3-9). If parking spaces are
located on only one side of such a planting island, the island
shall be a minimum of six (6) feet wide (see Figure 4.3-10).
Figure 4.3-9 Minimum Width of Landscape Island Perpendicular to Spaces (parking on both sides)
55
Figure 4.3-10 Minimum Width of Landscape Island Perpendicular to Spaces

(parking on one side)
(E)
Existing shade trees (except an invasive species) may be retained and

credited toward fulfilling parking lot interior planting requirements if
appropriate measures are taken to provide long-term viability based on the
species, condition, and size of the tree; the limits of disturbance, allowing
a minimum area of seventy percent (70%) critical root zone retention
protection during construction; and specialized tree management
practices, as approved by the planning director (or designee).
(F)
Main drive aisles shall be separated from abutting parking spaces by a

minimum six (6) foot wide interior planting area.
(G)
A minimum of one (1) interior planting island shall be provided on

average for every ten (10) contiguous spaces (see Figure 4.3-11).
56
Figure 4.3-11 Minimum Number of Planting Islands
(H)
The following requirements shall only apply to parking lots more than
fifty thousand (50,000) square feet in area:
(i)
Option 1-There shall be no more than two (2) contiguous parking

bays without the provision of a minimum nine (9) foot wide
island separating the two bays from additional parking bays or
drive aisles (see Figure 4.3-12); or
Figure 4.3-12 Parking Bay Separation
57
(ii)
Option 2-At least one (1) shade tree shall be provided for each
two hundred (200) square feet (or fraction) of interior landscape
area provided. These trees shall have a clear trunk at least six (6)
feet above finished grade level.
(d)
The landscape plan shall include a schedule as provided below demonstrating compliance
with the requirements of this section.

Parking Lot Perimeter Landscape Strip for
Parking Lots 7,000 Square Feet or Larger
Linear feet of parking lot perimeter adjacent to property line:

1)
_____Developed Tier,
_____Rural Tier
1, 2, or 3:_____
1 or 2:_____
1 or 2:_____
_____feet
_____feet
_____feet
provided:
_____feet
_____feet
_____feet
Plant material required:
_____shade trees
_____shade trees
_____shade trees
_____shrubs
_____shrubs
_____shrubs
Total plant material
_____shade trees
_____shade trees
_____shade trees
provided:
_____shrubs
_____shrubs
_____shrubs
_____existing shade
_____existing shade
_____existing shade
trees
trees
trees
Corridor Node or
Center
2)
Option selected:
3)
Width of perimeter strip

required:
4)
5)
6)
Width of perimeter strip
58

Interior Planting for Parking Lots 7,000 Square Feet or Larger
1)
Parking Lot Area (see Figure 4.3-7):
_____square feet
2)
Interior landscaped area required:
_____%
_____square feet
3)
Interior landscaped area provided:
_____%
_____square feet
4)
Minimum number of shade trees required:

(1 per 300 square feet of interior planting area provided)
_____shade trees
or
(1 per 200 square feet of interior planting area provided)
_____shade trees
5)
Number of shade trees provided:
_____shade trees
6)
Is a minimum of 160 square feet of contiguous pervious land area

provided per shade tree?
_____yes
_____no
7)
Is there a planting island on average every 10 spaces?
_____yes
_____no
8)
Is a curb or wheel stop provided for all parking spaces abutting a

_____yes
_____no
_____yes
_____no
_____yes
_____no
_____yes
_____no
_____yes
_____no
planting or pedestrian area?

9)
Are planting islands that are either parallel or perpendicular to parking

spaces on both sides a minimum of 9 feet wide?
10) Is a planting island that is perpendicular to parking spaces on one side a

minimum of 6 feet wide?
11) For parking lots 50,000 square feet or larger:
a) Is there a 9-foot-wide planting island perpendicular to parking
for every 2 bays?
or
b) Is the number of shade trees required increased? (1 per 200
square feet of interior planting area provided)
59
4.4
Screening Requirements
(a)
(1)
Conceal loading and maintenance areas from residential properties and streets.
(2)
Conceal all outdoor merchandise storage areas from residential properties and
streets.
(3)
Completely conceal all trash collection facilities.
(4)
Conceal mechanical equipment from adjacent properties, streets, outdoor living

and recreation areas, and parking facilities.
(b)
Design Guidelines
(1)
In general, screening materials should consist of evergreen trees and shrubs,

walls, fences, and berms. Screening fences and walls should not be constructed
of corrugated metal, corrugated fiberglass, sheet metal, chain link, or wire mesh.
(2)
Vegetative screening should consist primarily of evergreen trees and shrubs, but
finely branched deciduous trees and shrubs planted in masses or tightly spaced
may also be considered.
(3)
Screening elements, such as walls, fences, and berms, should be carefully

designed to avoid unnecessarily obstructing views, restricting light and air, or
creating hazardous blind spots (see Section 3.5(f), Crime Prevention Through
Environmental Design).
(4)
All screening structures should be constructed of attractive, durable, lowmaintenance materials compatible with the architectural character and materials
of adjacent buildings.
60
(5)
Screening options presented below should not be used to produce monotonous,

linear designs. If a long stretch of screening is required, options should be
combined or alternated, or plant materials should be varied to achieve a more
pleasing effect. Other creative options, such as grade changes or use of existing
vegetation or plant materials, are encouraged, but the applicant must demonstrate
to the satisfaction of the appropriate hearing authority (or designee) that
comparable or superior screening will be provided.
(6)
At the time of installation or planting of screening materials, screening should

occupy seventy-five percent (75%) of a vertical rectangular plane (excluding
driveways) sufficiently tall and wide to accomplish the required screening.
(7)
Screening in addition to that specified below may also be required if, because of
slopes or other specific conditions on a site, the required screening measures do
not achieve the necessary level of concealment (see Section 3.4(f), Screening and
Buffering Plantings).
(c)
Requirements
(1)
Materials:
(A)
Screening walls shall be compatible with on-site structures in terms of

design and materials.
(B)
The use of corrugated metal, corrugated fiberglass, sheet metal, chain

link, or wire mesh fencing is prohibited.
(2)
Loading Spaces
Loading spaces, loading docks, maintenance areas, and access driveways

adjoining these areas shall be screened from adjoining existing residential uses,
land in any residential zone, or land proposed to be used for residential purposes
on an approved basic plan, approved official plan, or any approved conceptual,
61
detailed, or special exception site plan. Loading spaces, loading docks, and
maintenance areas shall also be screened from constructed public streets.
Options:
(A)
Six (6) foot high sight-tight fence or wall; or
(B)
Minimum two (2) foot high berm, densely planted with vegetation to
achieve a screen with an ultimate height of at least six (6) feet; or
(C)
Six (6) foot high, evergreen screen (trees or shrubs, minimum six (6) feet
high at planting, minimum nine (9) feet on center, double staggered row);
or
(D)
(3)
A combination of the above options.
Outdoor Merchandise Storage
Outdoor merchandise storage areas shall be screened from adjoining existing

residential uses, land in any residential zone, or land proposed to be used for
residential purposes on an approved basic plan, approved official plan, or any
approved conceptual, detailed, or special exception site plan. Loading spaces,
loading docks, and maintenance areas shall also be screened from constructed
public streets.
Options:
(A)
Six (6) foot high, sight-tight fence or wall; or
(B)
Minimum two (2) foot high berm, densely planted with vegetation to
achieve a screen with an ultimate height of at least six (6) feet; or
62
(C)
Six (6) foot high evergreen screen (trees or shrubs, minimum six (6) feet
high at planting, minimum nine (9) feet on center, double staggered row);
or
(D)
(4)
Trash and Recycling Facilities
All dumpsters, trash pads, and trash collection or storage areas, including
recycling facilities, shall be carefully located and oriented on the site to be as
inconspicuous as possible. Such facilities shall be screened from all adjoining
properties, except for those on which industrial, warehouse and distribution, or
resource recovery uses are permitted; from all public roads, if located within a
residential development; from all outdoor living and recreation areas, parking
areas, and entrance drives within the development; and, if located within a
commercial development, from all outdoor recreation areas, retail parking areas,
and entrance drives within the development. Where screening is required, the
facilities shall be wholly enclosed.
Options:
(A)
Sight-tight fence or wall (height to be determined by size and location of

area to be screened); or
(B)
Evergreen screen (height, spacing, and variety to be determined by size

and location of area to be screened); or
(C)
(5)
An extension of a building.
Mechanical Equipment
All mechanical equipment and meters (except for public utility transformers;
electric and other meters attached to single-family dwelling units; and heat pumps
or air conditioners for single-family dwellings, unless placed in a group of three or
more) shall be screened from all adjacent properties, except for those properties on
63
which industrial, warehouse and distribution, or resource recovery uses are

permitted; from all adjacent dedicated public roads, if located within a residential
development; from all outdoor living and recreation areas, parking areas, and
entrance drives within the development; and, if located within a commercial
development, from all outdoor recreation areas, parking areas, and entrance
drives.
Options:
(A)
Sight-tight fence or wall (height to be determined by size and location of

area to be screened); or
(B)

(C)
(6)
Vehicle-Related Uses
All vehicle repair facilities, vehicle towing stations, and vehicle storage yards,
notwithstanding the nonconforming status of the property, shall be completely
screened from any adjoining existing residential use, land in any residential zone,
or land in any other zone proposed to be used for residential purposes on an
approved basic plan, official plan, or any approved conceptual, detailed, or special
exception site plan.
Options:
(A)
Six (6) foot high, sight-tight fence or wall; or
(B)

(C)
64
(d)
The landscape plans shall show the proposed location, type, size, and botanical and
common names of all plant materials proposed to be installed in fulfillment of the
requirements of this section and shall include construction details of all proposed
structural screening elements identifying dimensions and proposed construction
materials.
4.5
Stormwater Management Facilities
Requirements for the landscaping of stormwater management facilities are generally established
by the Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) or by those municipalities with
stormwater management authority. The DPW&T requirements may be found in the Storm
Drainage and Stormwater Management Design Manual for Prince George's County or any
subsequent revision thereof.
DPW&T and M-NCPPC shall coordinate review of the design of all landscaping associated with
stormwater management facilities prior to the final technical approval of the stormwater
management plan by DPW&T. Landscape plans for stormwater management facilities shall be
reviewed and approved by the appropriate authority concurrently and in association with the
regulatory plan review.
4.6
Buffering Development from Streets
(a)
(1)
Provide an attractive view of development from streets and special roadways by

buffering those developments with appropriate landscaping.
(2)
Buffer the rear yard and the lowest story of the rear exterior walls of any singlefamily attached or detached dwelling from the view of any street, except an alley.
65
(3)
Provide a buffer between a multifamily dwelling and a major collector or higher

classification roadway in order to reduce the adverse impacts to the multifamily
development.
(4)
Preserve and enhance the scenic and/or historic landscape qualities within the
viewshed adjacent to special roadways.
(b)
Design Guidelines
(1)
Trees and shrubs planted in the buffer should exhibit substantial variety in
species and visual characteristics, include native species, and be designed to
create varied and attractive views on a year-round basis.
(2)
Long stretches of a single fence or wall design should not be continued to the
point of visual monotony but should be varied by using changes in height,
species, different material combinations, offset angles, or other types of
articulation so that the visual characteristics of the landscaping are provided on a
year-round basis.
(3)
Plans submitted for review should show the general location and type of major
landscape elements of an existing or proposed buffer on adjacent properties and
should demonstrate that the proposed buffer treatment will provide an attractive
visual continuity with existing or proposed buffer treatments on adjacent
properties.
(4)
When buffering development from historic roadways, the plant materials selected
should be noninvasive, appropriate species.
(5)
Natural landscape features, particularly existing native plant materials and tree
cover, should be preserved and enhanced whenever possible.
(6)
If a bufferyard is not currently vegetated, it should be planted with vegetation that

mimics the landscape conditions on nearby properties. However, in no case should
proposed plantings be an invasive species.
66
(c)
Requirements
(1)
Buffering Residential Development from Streets
(A)
When the rear yards of single-family attached or detached dwellings in any

zone are oriented toward a street, a buffer area shall be provided between the
development and the street, either on individual lots or as part of the
common open space owned and maintained by a homeowners association.
All plant material required for this buffer should be located outside of public
utility easements adjacent to the right-of-way. The width of the buffer and
the plant materials required to be planted within the buffer shall be based on
road classifications as identified in the Approved Countywide Master Plan of
Transportation as follows:
(i)
Primary or Lower Road Classifications (excluding alleys)
A minimum of a twenty (20) foot wide buffer with the following

plant material per one hundred (100) linear feet of property line
adjacent to the street:
Two (2) shade trees*

Eight (8) evergreen trees
Twelve (12) shrubs
(ii)
Collector Road
A minimum of a thirty-five (35) foot wide buffer with the

following plant materials per one hundred (100) linear feet of
property line adjacent to the street:
Four (4) shade trees*

Twelve (12) evergreen trees
Twenty (20) shrubs
67
(iii)
Major Collector or Arterial Road
A minimum fifty (50) foot wide buffer with the following plant
materials per one hundred (100) linear feet of property line
Six (6) shade trees*

Sixteen (16) evergreen trees
Thirty (30) shrubs
(iv)
Freeway or Expressway: A minimum seventy-five (75) foot wide

buffer with the following plant materials per one hundred (100)
linear feet of property line adjacent to the street
Eight (8) shade trees*

Twenty (20) evergreen trees
Forty (40) shrubs
*One-half (1/2) of the number of required shade trees may be

satisfied on a two-to-one (2:1) basis by the use of ornamental
trees and evergreen trees (not to exceed one-fourth (1/4) of the
required number of shade trees).
(B)
When any yard of a multifamily development in any zone is oriented toward

a major collector, an arterial, a freeway, or an expressway, a buffer shall be
provided between the development and the street, as part of the common
open space. All plant material required for this buffer shall be located
outside of public utility easements adjacent to the right-of-way. The width of
the buffer and the plant materials required to be planted within the buffer
shall be based on road classifications as follows:
68
(i)
Major Collector or Arterial Road:
A minimum fifty (50) foot wide buffer with the following plant
materials per one hundred (100) linear feet of property line
Six (6) shade trees*

Sixteen (16) evergreen trees
Thirty (30) shrubs
(ii)
Freeway or Expressway
A minimum of a seventy-five (75) foot wide buffer with the

following plant materials per one hundred (100) linear feet of
property line adjacent to the street:
Eight (8) shade trees*

Twenty (20) evergreen trees
Forty (40) shrubs
*One-half (1/2) of the number of required shade trees may be

satisfied on a two-to-one (2:1) basis by the use of ornamental
trees and evergreen trees (not to exceed one-fourth (1/4) of the
required number of shade trees).
(C)
When existing noninvasive trees are located within the buffer area,
preservation of those trees is generally preferred to the planting of new
trees. When existing vegetation is located in only part of the buffer, the
number of shade trees, evergreen trees, and shrubs required to be planted
may be reduced in proportion to the percentage of the area of the buffer
occupied by existing vegetation. Any invasive species should be removed
from the buffer area.
69
(D)
Fences, walls, or berms may also be employed on the inner edge of the
buffer to screen the views of rear yards. Use of a six (6) foot high
decorative, opaque fence or wall reduces the requirement for plant
materials by fifty percent (50%).
(2)
Buffering Development from Special Roadways
(A)
When a property supporting any use has frontage on a special roadway,

except residential development as described in Section 4.6(c)(1), a buffer
area shall be provided adjacent to the entire right-of-way, excluding
driveway openings. All plant material required by this section shall be
located outside of public utility easements adjacent to the right-of-way. The
width of the buffer area and the plant material required to be planted within
the buffer area shall be as follows:
(i)
Developed Tier-Designated historic roads, designated scenic

roads, and the Suitland and Baltimore-Washington Parkways
A minimum ten (10) foot wide buffer with one (1) shade tree and
ten (10) shrubs per thirty-five (35) linear feet of frontage, excluding
driveway openings.
(ii)
Developing Tier-Designated historic roads, designated scenic

roads, the Maryland State-designated scenic byway, and the
Suitland and Baltimore-Washington Parkways
A minimum twenty (20) foot wide buffer to be planted with a

minimum of eighty (80) plant units per one hundred (100) linear
feet of frontage, excluding driveway openings.
(iii)
Rural Tier-Designated historic roads, designated scenic roads,

the Maryland State-designated scenic byway, and the Suitland
and Baltimore-Washington Parkways
70
A minimum forty (40) foot wide buffer to be planted with a

minimum of one hundred sixty (160) plant units per one hundred
(100) linear feet of frontage, excluding driveways, for high impact
uses only. The buffering and planting requirements for all other
uses shall be a minimum forty (40) foot wide buffer to be planted
with a minimum of eighty (80) plant units. One hundred (100)
percent of the plant units provided within the buffer shall be native
species that shall be randomly spaced to mimic local forest
communities.
(B)
When existing noninvasive trees are located within the buffer, preservation
of the trees is generally preferred to the planting of new trees. When existing
vegetation is located in only part of the buffer, the number of shade trees,
evergreen trees, and shrubs required to be planted may be reduced in
proportion to the percentage of the area of the buffer occupied by existing
vegetation. Any invasive species should be removed from the buffer area.
(C)
The buffering and planting requirements of Section 4.6(c)(2)(iii) may be

reduced if viewshed studies indicate, at the time of a detailed site plan,
specific design plan, or special exception (or if none of these are required,
through an application for alternative compliance), that the alternative
landscape design will conserve and enhance the special roadway with regard
to the natural and/or cultural features of the surrounding area.
(d)
In addition, the landscape plan shall include a schedule as provided below demonstrating
compliance with the requirements of this section.
71

Buffering Residential Development from Streets
1)
Name of street adjacent to rear yard:
2)
Type of street adjacent to rear yard:
3)
Linear feet of street frontage toward which rear yard is oriented,

not including driveway openings:
_____feet
4)
Minimum width of required buffer:
_____feet
5)
Minimum width of provided buffer:
_____feet
6)
Percentage of required buffer strip occupied by existing trees:
_____%
7)
Invasive species in the buffer area?
_____yes _____no
8)
Six (6) foot high fence or wall included in bufferyard?
_____yes _____no
9)
_____shade trees
_____shrubs
10)
Total number of plants
_____shade trees
provided:
_____shrubs
72

Buffering Development from Special Roadways
1)
Name of special roadway:
2)
Type of special roadway:
3)
_____Developed Tier
_____Rural Tier
4)
Linear feet of street frontage, not including driveway entrances:
_____feet
5)
Minimum width of required buffer:
_____feet
6)
Minimum width of provided buffer:
_____feet
7)
Percentage of required buffer occupied by existing trees:
_____%
8)
Invasive species in the buffer areas?
_____yes _____no
9)
_____shade trees
_____shrubs
10) Total number of plants provided:
_____shade trees
_____shrubs
73
4.7
Buffering Incompatible Uses
(a)
Objectives
(1)
Establish a comprehensive, consistent, and flexible buffering system consisting

of a specified area of land and vertical elements, such as plant materials, walls,
fences, and berms, between adjacent incompatible land uses.
(2)
Form a visual and physical separation between uses of a significantly different

scale, character, and/or intensity of development to mitigate undesirable impacts,
such as noise, smell, storage facilities, dust, fumes, vibration, litter, vehicle
exhaust, and lighting.
(3)
(b)
Create a transition between moderately incompatible uses.
Design Guidelines
(1)
Any combination of shade trees, ornamental trees, evergreen trees, and shrubs may
be used to achieve the desired buffering effect, as long as the proposed combination
of plants yields a total number of plant units equal to or greater than the
requirement.
(2)
Buffering elements, such as walls, fences, and berms, should be carefully designed
not to unnecessarily obstruct views, restrict light and air, or create hazardous blind
spots (see Section 3.5(f), Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design).
(3)
When buffering historic sites from incompatible uses, historically appropriate,

noninvasive species should be used to preserve the context of the historic site.
(4)
Consideration should be given to topography, the extent of the environmental

setting, and the preservation of vistas whenever possible. When designing
bufferyards, equal consideration should be given to preserving and enhancing the
views of and the views from historic sites.
74
(5)
Trees and shrubs planted in the buffer should exhibit substantial variety in species
and visual characteristics, include native species, and be designed to create varied
and attractive views.
(6)
Plans submitted for review shall show the general location and type of major
landscape elements of an existing or proposed buffer on adjacent properties and
shall demonstrate that the proposed buffer treatment will provide an attractive visual
continuity with existing or proposed buffer treatments on adjacent properties.
(7)
Natural landscape features, particularly existing native plant materials and tree
cover, should be preserved and enhanced whenever possible.
(c)
Requirements
If the adjoining property is neither vacant (see Section 4.7(c)(5)), a nonconforming use
(see Section 4.7(c)(6)), nor a historic site (see Section 4.7(c)(7)), the following
methodology shall be used to determine the required bufferyard width and quantity of
plant materials between two adjacent uses:
(1)
Locate the proposed development (nonresidential uses only) in Section 4.7, Table
4.7-1, Use Impact Categories. Note whether the use is assigned High (H),
Medium (M), or Low Impact (L).
(2)
Locate the adjoining use in Table 4.7-1, Use Impact Categories. Note whether the
use is assigned High (H), Medium (M), or Low Impact (L) and whether the
proposed and adjacent uses are considered compatible based on the use group. If
a developing lot adjoins a vacant lot, see Section 4.7(c)(5). A lot is considered
vacant if it contains no structure or vehicle surface area within two hundred (200)
feet of the property line. If a developing lot adjoins nonconforming uses, see
Section 4.7(c)(6). If a developing lot adjoins a historic site, see Section 4.7(c)(7).
75
(A)
The assignment of each use as high, medium, or low impact, as indicated

in Table 4.7-1, Use Impact Categories, is based on whether the use
typically involves one or more of the following:
(i)
Noise.
(ii)
Outdoor loading spaces and/or dumpsters, other trash collection

facilities, or recycling facilities.
(iii)
Type of trash generated on the site, e.g., food or animal by-product

disposal.
(iv)
Exterior storage.
(v)
Dust, fumes, vehicle exhaust, and vibration.
(vi)
Litter.
(vii)
Lighting during the evening or at night (10:00 p.m.6:00 a.m.).
(viii)
Use of the property during the evening or at night (10:00 p.m.6:00

a.m.).
(ix)
(B)
Generation of more than three hundred (300) daily vehicle trips.
A High-Impact Use, signified by "H" in Table 4.7-1, Use Impact

Categories, is one which, considering the criteria, is expected to have a
strong effect on adjacent properties.
(C)
A Medium-Impact Use, signified by "M" in Table 4.7-1, Use Impact

moderate effect on adjacent properties.
76
(D)
A Low-Impact Use, signified by "L" in Table 4.7-1, Use Impact

limited effect on adjacent properties.
(E)
When a specific use is not identified in Table 4.7-1, Use Impact

Categories, the most similar use shall be used. Interpretations relating to
impact categories shall be made by the planning director, or the designee,
whose decision shall be appealable to the Planning Board.
(F)
A required bufferyard shall not overlap a required landscape strip along a

street (see Figure 4.7-1).
Figure 4.7-1 Relationship of Bufferyards and Landscape Strips
(G)
In the case of a lot that is located in more than one zone, the establishment of
a required bufferyard is based on the platted or recorded property line(s), not
the zoning line(s).
77
(H)
For applications proposing horizontally arranged mixed-use under a unified

development scheme on a single lot or multiple lots, the impact category for
the use nearest a property line shall determine the buffering requirements for
that yard (see Figure 4.7-2).
Figure 4.7-2 Use Determination for Horizontally Arranged Mixed-Use Development
(I)
For applications proposing vertically arranged mixed-use development on a

single lot or multiple lots, the impact category for the property shall be based
on the predominant use of the property. The predominant use is determined
by the gross floor area associated with each use (see Figure 4.7-3).
78
Figure 4.7-3 Use Determination for Vertically Arranged Mixed-Use Development
(J)
For applications including buildings over forty-six (46) feet in height, the
bufferyard (setback and landscaped yard) shall be increased by one-third
(1/3) of the additional building height when adjoining properties contain
one-family attached and/or detached structures.
79
Table 4.7-1
Use Impact Categories
IMPACT
USE
CATEGORY
A. RESIDENTIAL, OTHER THAN SINGLE-FAMILY, MULTIPLEX,

MULTIFAMILY, AND LODGING
The following uses are considered compatible when located on adjoining

properties:
Country Inn or Bed and Breakfast
Fraternity or Sorority House
Group Residential Facility (20 residents or more)
Motel or Hotel
Rooming Houses or Boarding Houses
B. INSTITUTIONAL/EDUCATIONAL
1. The following uses are considered compatible when located on

adjoining properties:
Chancery
Church or similar place of worship
Convent or Monastery
Day Care Center for children or adults
Eleemosynary or Philanthropic Institutions
Nursing or Care Home
School (public or private)
2. The following uses are not considered compatible with the uses above
when located on adjoining properties:
Hospital
Training Facility, general
Training Facility, truck driver, military, or any other facility that
includes the use of firearms, explosives, or heavy machinery
80
C. PUBLIC/QUASI PUBLIC

Fire, Ambulance, or Rescue Station
Library
Post Office
Public Office Buildings
Jail
Sanitary Landfill
D. RECREATIONAL/ENTERTAINMENT/SOCIAL/CULTURAL

Amusement Arcade
Archery Range
Athletic Field (lighted)
Athletic Field (unlighted)
Baseball Batting Range
Beach, Public
Billiard or Pool Parlor
Boat Ramp
Bowling Alley
Club or Lodge (private)
Community Center (public or private)
Dog Park
Fishing Pier
Golf Course or Country Club
Golf Driving Range (unlighted)
Marina
81
Museum, Aquarium, Art Gallery, Cultural Center, or similar facility

Park (with no active recreational facilities)
M
NO BUFFER
Playground
Recreational Campground
Reducing/Exercise Salon or Health Club
Riding Stable (Equestrian)
Rifle, Pistol, or Skeet Shooting Range (indoor)
Skate Park (outdoor)
Skating Rink
Summer Camp
Swimming Pool (private or HOA owned)
Tennis, Basketball, Handball, or similar court (outdoor)
Theater (indoor)
Amusement Park
Arena or Stadium
Go-Cart Track
Golf Driving Range (lighted)
Miniature Golf Course
Race Track
Rifle, Pistol, or Skeet Shooting Range (outdoor)
Swimming Pool (public)
Theater (outdoor, including drive-in)
E. COMMERCIAL

Animal Hospital, Veterinary Office (without kennel or boarding)
Antique Shop
Bank (with drive-through)
Bank (without drive-through)
82
Building Supply (wholly enclosed, except for nursery stock)
Commercial and Professional Offices
Contractors Office (without outside storage)
Dry Cleaning (pick-up only)
Food and Beverage Store
Funeral Parlor, Undertaking Establishment (see Section 27-357(a)(1))
Laundromat
Offices: Accountants, Architects, Clergymen, Engineers, Lawyers,

Medical Practitioners, and similarly recognized and learned
profession (as an accessory use in a dwelling)
Medical Practitioners Office
Real Estate Sales Office (as an accessory use in a dwelling)
Restaurant (sit down)
Retail Sales and Consumer Service Establishment (including

integrated shopping centers) 60,000 square feet GFA or less
Animal Hospital, Veterinary Office (with kennel or boarding)
Building Supply (with outdoor storage)
Contractors Office (with outside storage)
Drive-in or Fast-Food Restaurant
Dry Cleaning Plant
Kennel
Retail Sales and Consumer Service Establishment (including

integrated shipping centers) larger than 60,000 square feet GFA
F.
VEHICLE-RELATED USES

properties:
Auto Parts with Installation
Automobile Filling Station
Auto Repair Facilities
83
Auto Dealership without repair facilities
Auto Storage Yard (not wrecked cars)
Auto Towing Yard
Auto Salvage Yard
Carwash
Rental and display of trucks, recreational vehicles, trailers exceeding
G.
8,500 pounds of gross vehicle weight
Rental and display of passenger cars and light trucks
INDUSTRIAL

properties:
Chemical and Allied Manufacturing
Distillery for the Production of Fuel Alcohol (industrial continued)
Fabrication of Wood, Metal, Paper, Plastic, and Glass Products from

materials produced elsewhere
Manufacturing and Processing of Lumber, Wood, and related

products
Manufacturing of Scientific, Specialized, and Technical Instruments
H.
and Equipment
Metal Production
Petroleum, Gas, and Related Products
Printing, Publishing, Paper, and related industries
Processing of Food and related products for human consumption
Rubber and Synthetic Rubber Products
Stone, Clay, Glass, and Cement Products
Textile Products
WHOLESALE, WAREHOUSE AND DISTRIBUTION
All general wholesale, warehouse, and distribution
Consolidated storage (formerly mini-warehouse)
84
I.
RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND RECOVERY
The following uses are considered compatible when located on

Agricultural uses:
(A) All general agriculture
(B) Limited to floriculture, horticulture, gardening and

private noncommercial greenhouses
(C) Keeping of homing or racing pigeons
J.
L
L
Class Three Fill
Concrete Recycling
Nursery or Garden Center
Rubble Fill
Sand or Gravel Wet Processing
Sawmill
Surface Mining
TRANSPORTATION/PARKING/COMMUNICATION,
UTILITIES

properties:
Airport, Airpark, Airfield, Airstrip, Heliport, Helistop
Broadcasting Studio (with tower)
Broadcasting Studio (without tower)
Bus Maintenance (at a private school or church)
Bus or Train Station or Terminal
Motor Freight Facilities and Terminals
Parking Garage (commercial)
Parking Lot (commercial)
Public Utility Use or Structure (except overhead utility lines but

including a tower, monopole, or antenna)
85
Public Utility with overhead power lines

Public Utility Easement without any aboveground structures
L
NO BUFFER
Rail Lines at or above ground level
Satellite Dish Antenna
Taxicab Dispatching Station
Tower, Pole, Whip, or Antenna (electronic, radio, or television,

transmitting or receiving, except a public utility structure or satellite
L
dish antenna)
K.
MISCELLANEOUS
Auction House
Carpentry, Cabinet Making, or other
Cemetery
Crematory
Junk Yard
Palmistry/Spiritual Advisor (as an accessory use or otherwise)
Recycling Collection Center
Rental Business
Storage Yard
Stormwater Management Pond (on an individual lot)

Tattoo Parlor
NO BUFFER
L
86
(3)
Consult Table 4.7-2, Minimum Bufferyard Requirements. Locate the use

categories for the proposed use and the adjoining use along the appropriate axis.
Read down and over to determine the required bufferyard type.
Table 4.7-2
Minimum Bufferyard Requirements
Adjoining Use
Townhouses,
Multiplexes
and Other
One-Family
Attached
Low
Medium
High
Detached
Units
Multifamily
Impact
Impact
Impact
NONE
A*
B*
B*
C*
D*
NONE
A*
B*
C*
D*
Multifamily
NONE
A*
B*
D*
Low Impact
NONE
A*
C*
Medium Impact
NONE
B*
High Impact
NONE
Proposed Use
One-Family
Detached
Townhouses,
Multiplexes, and
Other Attached
Units
*Indicates the maximum buffer that may be required. If all or any part of the buffer has been provided on
the adjacent property, was required by the landscape manual, and is shown on a landscape plan approved
in accordance with this section, the proposed use may provide only that amount of the buffer that has not
been provided on the adjacent property (see Figure 4.7-4).
87
Figure 4.7-4 Required Bufferyard Adjacent to Existing Bufferyard
(4)
Consult Table 4.7-3, Bufferyard Types, to determine minimum building setback,

minimum landscaped yard, and plant requirements for each bufferyard type.
Table 4.7-3
Bufferyard Types
Number of Plant Units
Minimum
Minimum
Building Setback
Landscaped Yard
20 feet
10 feet
40
30 feet
20 feet
80
40 feet
30 feet
120
50 feet
40 feet
160
60 feet
50 feet
180
Type
88
Required per 100 Linear

Feet of Property Line
In order to use and understand Table 4.7-3, Bufferyard Types, the following notes
apply:
(A)
Where a greater building setback is required by the Zoning Ordinance to

compensate for the height of the building, one (1) additional foot of
landscaped yard shall be required for every three (3) feet of required
building setback in excess of the setbacks required in Table 4.7-3,
Buffered Types.
(B)
Surface parking, loading facilities, trash collection, recycling facilities,

and mechanical equipment may not be located in the minimum
landscaped yard.
(C)
Number of Plants Required
Any combination of shade trees, ornamental trees, evergreen trees, and

shrubs may be used to achieve the desired buffering effect, as long as the
proposed combination of plants yields a total number of plant units equal
to or greater than the requirement.
Plant unit equivalencies are as follows:
One (1) shade tree = Ten (10) plant units

One (1) evergreen tree = Five (5) plant units
One (1) ornamental tree = Five (5) plant units
One (1) shrub = One (1) plant unit
Plants may be located anywhere within the bufferyard.
(D)
When existing noninvasive trees are located within the entire minimum
landscaped yard, preservation of those trees will be allowed to substitute
for the required plant materials. When existing trees are located in only
part of the minimum landscaped yard, the number of plant units required
may be reduced in proportion to the percentage of the area of the
89
landscaped yard occupied by existing trees. Seventy percent (70%) or

more of the critical root zone of all trees proposed to be preserved shall
remain undisturbed.
(E)
For properties located in the Developing Tier, the required bufferyard may
be reduced as follows:
(i)
If the width of the required bufferyard (building setback and the

landscape yard) is increased, the required plant material may be
proportionately decreased for a total maximum reduction of
twenty-five percent (25%) of the required plant material; or
(ii)
If a six (6) foot high, opaque fence or wall is located within the
bufferyard, plant unit requirements may be reduced by up to fifty
percent (50%). The wall or fence must provide the maximum
concealment.
(F)
For properties located in the Developed Tier and/or a Center or Corridor

Node, except for those adjoining existing residentially developed lots, the
requirements may be reduced up to fifty percent (50%) (including the
number of plant units, setback, and landscape yard), if a six (6) foot high,
opaque fence or wall is located within the bufferyard. The wall or fence must
provide the maximum concealment.
(5)
Developing Lots Adjacent to Vacant Lots
(A)
A lot is considered vacant if it contains no structure or vehicular surface

area within two hundred (200) feet of the property line.
(B)
If a developing property with a nonresidential use is adjacent to a vacant

property zoned residential, then one hundred percent (100%) of the
bufferyard is required. In the Developed Tier and/or a Center or Corridor
Node, the landscape yard requirements may be reduced by fifty percent
90
(50%) on the developing lot if a six (6) foot high, opaque fence or wall is
provided on the developing lot (see Figure 4.7-5).
Figure 4.7-5 Developing Non-Residential Use Adjacent to Vacant Residentially-Zoned Property
(C)
If a developing property with a residential use is adjoining vacant property

zoned residential, fifty percent (50%) of the bufferyard is required to be
provided on the developing lot (see Figure 4.7-6).
Figure 4.7-6 Developing Residential Use Adjacent to Vacant Residentially-Zoned Property
91
(D)
If a developing property with a residential use is located adjacent to a

vacant lot located in a Commercial or Industrial Zone, the developing
property is not required to provide a buffer.
(E)
If a developing property with a non-residential use is located adjacent to a

vacant lot located in a Commercial or Industrial Zone, fifty percent (50%)
of the bufferyard is required to be provided on the developing lot.
(F)
If a developing property is located in a Commercial Zone and is adjoining

vacant property located in a Commercial Zone, the developing property is
not required to provide a bufferyard.
(G)
If a developing property is located in an Industrial Zone and is adjoining

vacant property located in an Industrial Zone, the developing property is not
required to provide a bufferyard.
(6)
Developing Lots Adjacent to Nonconforming Uses
If a developing property is adjacent to an incompatible, certified, nonconforming

use, the bufferyard requirement may be reduced by fifty percent (50%) if a six (6)
foot high, opaque fence or wall is provided on the developing lot (see Figure 4.7-7).
Figure 4.7-7 Developing Property Adjacent to Incompatible, Nonconforming Use
92
(7)
Developing Lots Adjacent to Historic Sites
(A)
If a developing lot adjoins a designated historic site (except underground

archeological sites) located within the Developed Tier, a Center, or a
Corridor Node, the developing lot shall provide a Type D buffer along
the entire shared property line (see Table 4.7-3, Bufferyard Types). This
requirement does not apply to a property line or right-of-way line adjacent
to a special roadway (see Section 4.6(c)(2)).
(B)
If a developing lot adjoins a designated historic site (except underground

archeological sites) and is located within the Developing or Rural Tier, the
developing lot shall provide a Type E buffer along the entire shared
property line (see Table 4.7-3, Bufferyard Types and Figure 4.7-8). This
requirement does not apply to a property line or right-of-way line adjacent
to a special roadway (see Section 4.6(c)(2), Buffering Development from
Special Roadways).
Figure 4.7-8 Developing Property Adjacent to Historic Site
93
(d)
The landscape plan shall include a schedule as follows demonstrating compliance with
the requirements of this section.
94

Buffering Incompatible Uses Requirements
1)
_____Developed Tier, Corridor

Node or Center
_____Developing or Rural Tier
2)
Use of proposed development:
3)
Impact of proposed development:
4)
Use of adjoining development:
5)
Impact of adjoining development:
6)
Minimum required bufferyard (A, B, C, D or E):
7)
Minimum required building setback:
_____ feet
8)
Building setback provided:
_____ feet
9)
Minimum required width of landscape yard:
_____ feet
10)
Width of landscape yard provided:
_____ feet
___A ___B ___C ___D ___ E
(The required setback and landscape yard may be reduced by fifty percent (50%) in the Developed
Tier, Corridor Node or Center when a six (6) foot high fence or wall is provided.)
11)
Linear feet of buffer strip required along property line and right-of-way:
_____ linear
feet
12)
Percentage of required bufferyard occupied by existing trees:
13)
Is a six (6) foot high fence or wall included in bufferyard?
_____ %
_____ yes
_____ no
(The required plant material may be reduced by fifty percent (50%) when a six (6) foot high fence
or wall is provided.)
14)
Total number of plant units required in buffer strip:
15)
Total number of plant units provided:
_____ p.u.
shade trees
_____ x 10 p.u.=
_____ p.u.
evergreen trees
_____ x 5 p.u.=
_____ p.u.
ornamental trees
_____ x 5 p.u.=
_____ p.u.
shrubs
_____ x 1 p.u.=
_____ p.u.
Total _____ p.u.
95
4.8
Landscape Requirements in a Regional Urban Community
(a)
Establish regulatory guidelines for landscaping within a Regional Urban

Community.
(b)
Requirements
The landscape requirements for a Regional Urban Community shall be determined at the
time of the conceptual site plan pursuant to Section 27-544 of the Zoning Ordinance or,
where appropriate, at the time of the comprehensive design plan pursuant to Section
27-480 of the Zoning Ordinance. The requirements, at a minimum, shall include:
(1)
Residential Requirements
(A)
All one-family detached lots that are smaller than nine thousand, five
hundred (9,500) square feet shall be planted with a minimum of one (1)
shade tree or one (1) ornamental tree.
(B)
For one-family attached, one-family semi-detached, two-family and threefamily dwellings, a minimum total of one (1) shade tree and one (1)
ornamental or evergreen tree per every two (2) units shall be provided.
These trees may be planted either on individual lots or on public or private
open space.
(C)
For multifamily units, one (1) major shade tree per two thousand, four
hundred (2,400) square feet of green area provided shall be required. The
number of trees may be satisfied on a two-to-one (2:1) basis by the use of
ornamental trees or evergreen trees, not to exceed one quarter (1/4) of the
number of shade trees.
96
(2)
Screening Requirements:
(A)
Screening materials shall consist of evergreen trees and shrubs, walls,

and fences.
(B)
At the time of installation or planting of screening materials, screening

must occupy seventy-five percent (75%) of a vertical, rectangular plane,
excluding driveways, sufficiently tall and wide to accomplish the
required screening.
(C)
All loading areas consisting of loading spaces, loading docks, adjacent

vehicular lanes, and service or maintenance areas shall be screened from
residential areas (containing one-family detached and attached dwelling
units) and all adjacent public roads.
(D)
All dumpsters, trash pads, trash/recycling collection, or storage areas

shall be carefully located and oriented on the site to be as inconspicuous
as possible.
(E)
All mechanical equipment and meters shall be screened to prevent

excessive noise and visual impacts on surrounding properties.
(F)
Screening options may include:
(i)
Six (6) foot high, sight-tight fence.
(ii)
Architecturally decorative walls.
(iii)
Evergreen screen (height, spacing, and variety to be determined

by size and location of area to be screened).
97
4.9
Sustainable Landscaping Requirements
(a)
(1)
Promote sustainable landscaping as an environmentally sensitive design

approach.
(b)
(2)
Incorporate regionally native plants into landscape design.
(3)
Prohibit the planting of invasive species, and manage existing invasive species.
(4)
Prohibit the planting of trees on steep slopes.
Design Guidelines
(1)
Plant material should be organized to mirror patterns found in nature, through

layering of trees and shrubs where space allows.
(2)
Landscapes should be designed for year-round visual interest through the use of
native evergreen, deciduous, flowering, and fruiting plant species.
(3)
Plants should be selected to suit site conditions, such as soil composition,

moisture content, and availability of sunlight.
(4)
The landscape design should include a diversity of native plants with a wide
variety of environmental benefits and should not include invasive species that
negatively affect regional ecosystems.
(5)
Invasive species present in vegetated areas to be retained according to the

requirements of the landscape manual should be removed in order to allow for
long-term sustainability of the landscape.
(6)
Landscaped areas should be maintained in order to prevent the introduction of

invasive species, which negatively affect the existing ecosystem.
98
(7)
Slopes greater than three-to-one (3:1) are not conducive to tree growth and
should not be planted to fulfill the requirements.
(c)
Requirements
(1)
A percentage of plants within each plant type (including shade trees, ornamental
trees, evergreen trees, and shrubs) shall be native species (or the cultivars of
native species) as identified in the National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service publication Native Plants for Wildlife Habitat and Conservation
Landscaping: Chesapeake Bay Watershed (as updated periodically) or
M-NCPPCs publication Native Plants of Prince Georges County dated 1998 or
any subsequent revision. The minimum percentage of plants of each plant type
required to be native species and/or native species cultivars is specified below:
(2)
Shade trees
50%
Ornamental trees
50%
Evergreen trees
30%
Shrubs
30%
Native plant material shall be identified as such in the planting schedule on the
landscape plan.
(3)
The planting schedule on the landscape plan shall not include species identified
in Invasive Species of Concern in Maryland (as updated periodically by the
Maryland Invasive Species Council) or in Plant Invaders of Mid-Atlantic Natural
Areas, published by the National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (as
updated periodically).
(4)
Existing trees and/or vegetation retained in fulfillment of the requirements shall

not contain invasive species. A note shall be added to the landscape plan that
requires removal of existing invasive species prior to certification in accordance
with Section 1.5, Certification of Installation of Plant Materials.
99
(5)
Trees proposed in fulfillment of the requirements shall not be planted on slopes

steeper than three-to-one (3:1).
(d)
The landscape plan shall include a schedule as follows demonstrating compliance with
the requirements of this section.

Sustainable Landscaping Requirements
1)
Percentage of native plant material required in each category:

Shade Trees:
total _____ x 50% =_____total number required

total number provided_____=_____% native
Ornamental Trees:

Evergreen Trees:

Shrubs:

2)
Are invasive species proposed?
_____yes
_____no
3)
Are existing invasive species on-site in areas that are to remain

_____yes
_____no
Materials?
_____yes
_____no
Are trees proposed to be planted on slopes greater than 3:1?
_____yes
_____no
undisturbed?
4)
If yes is checked in numbers 2 or 3, is a note included on the plan

requiring removal of invasive species prior to certification in
accordance with Section 1.5, Certification of Installation of Plant
5)
100
4.10
Street Trees Along Private Streets
All public rights-of-way are governed by the Department of Public Works and Transportation, State
Highway Administration, or a municipality. Section 23-141 of the County Code requires the planting
of street trees during the development process when existing public roads have to be improved and
when new public roads are constructed. Design standards for street trees within public rights-of-way
should be obtained from the governing agency; however, all proposed street trees within public
rights-of-way should be shown on all landscape plans for informational purposes.
(a)
(1)
Ensure that street trees along private streets are selected and planted in a manner
that will enhance private streets both visually and environmentally.
(2)
Define the private street as a unified space that connects distant and sometimes
disparate uses.
(3)
Establish human scale, and promote pedestrian activity by fostering a safe,

pedestrian-friendly streetscape along private streets.
(b)
Design Guidelines
(1)
Street trees should be of a substantial size and should be spaced at intervals that
create a consistent canopy over the streetscape, provided they do not conflict with
traffic safety and operational standards.
(2)
Trees adjacent to the right-of-way should be selected from varieties that require
little maintenance and tolerate salt and soil compaction.
(3)
Street trees at vehicular entrances should be located so as to maintain safe

sight distances.
(4)
Street trees should be part of an overall streetscape plan designed to provide both
canopy and shade and to give special character and coherence to each street.
101
(5)
The desired aesthetic effect should be achieved through the use of native and/or
proven hardy adapted species.
(6)
Street trees should shape and subdivide the street space, increasing pedestrian
comfort and adding value to the community.
(7)
Street tree species that form a ceiling-like enclosure and open a clear view of the
street space and shop fronts at eye-level should be utilized.
(8)
Street tree species should be planted consistently within the streetscape to

provide a distinct form and character to each private street. Plans should provide
species diversity corresponding to the street character by planting different streets
with different trees.
(c)
Requirements
(1)
Street trees shall be located in a space not less than five (5) feet wide between the
street curb or edge of paving and the sidewalk.
(2)
Shade trees, two and one-half (2-1/2) to three (3) inch caliper in size, shall
be planted along each private street at an average spacing of not less than
twenty-five (25) feet on center nor greater than fifty (50) feet on center,
excluding driveway openings. Spacing allowances may be made, where
necessary, to accommodate curb cuts, fire hydrants, and other
infrastructure elements.
(3)
Ornamental trees, seven (7) to nine (9) feet in height, may only be used to meet
the requirements of this section where overhead wires prohibit the planting of
shade trees. Ornamental trees shall be planted at an average rate of one (1) tree
per thirty (30) linear feet, excluding driveway openings.
(4)
Street trees shall be located a minimum thirty-five (35) feet from the point of
curvature of an intersection of two (2) streets.
102
(5)
Street trees shall be located a minimum ten (10) feet from the point of curvature
of residential driveway entrances.
(6)
Street trees shall be located a minimum twenty (20) feet from the point of
curvature of commercial driveway entrances.
(7)
Street trees shall be located a minimum fifteen (15) feet from street light poles.
(8)
Street trees shall be located a minimum ten (10) feet from water meters.
(9)
Street trees shall be located a minimum ten (10) feet from storm drain inlets,
hydrants, or manholes.
(10)
Soil surface area provided shall be a minimum of one hundred fifty (150) square
feet per tree for isolated trees and a minimum of one hundred twenty (120)
square feet per tree within a continuous open landscape strip. These requirements
may also be met through the use of bridged slab, structural soil, or other
techniques clearly indicating a minimum of three hundred and seventy-five (375)
cubic feet of soil or three hundred (300) cubic feet of soil for each tree,
respectively. Details and specifications of such techniques shall be provided on
the landscape plan (see Figure 4.10-1).
Figure 4.10-1 Minimum Soil Surface Area Required
103
(d)
The landscape plan shall include a schedule as follows for all private streets,
demonstrating compliance with the requirements of this section.

Street Trees Along Private Streets
1)
Number of street trees required (1 tree per 35 linear feet of frontage

excluding driveway openings):
_____street trees
2)
Number of street trees provided:
_____street trees
3)
If ornamental trees are used, are they spaced on average 30 feet on

center? (Ornamental trees may only be used where overhead wires
_____ yes
_____no
_____ yes
_____no
_____ yes
_____no
_____ yes
_____no
no less than 5 feet wide?
_____ yes
_____no
8)
Are street trees located a minimum of 15 feet from street light poles?
_____ yes
_____no
9)
Are street trees located a minimum of 10 feet from water meters?
_____ yes
_____no
10)
Are street trees located a minimum of 10 feet from storm drain inlets,
_____ yes
_____no
prohibit the planting of shade trees.)

4)
Are street trees located a minimum of 35 feet from the point of curvature
of an intersection?
5)
of a residential driveway?
6)
of commercial driveway entrances?
7)
Are street trees located between the sidewalk and face of curb in a space
hydrants, or manholes?
11)
12)
Area of soil surface required (minimum of 150 square feet for isolated
trees and a minimum of 120 square feet for continuous landscape strips):
_____square feet
Minimum area of soil surface provided:
_____square feet
104
SECTION 5 - GLOSSARY OF TERMS
The definitions contained in this glossary are distinct to this manual. For the definitions not contained herein,
reference should be made to Part 2, Division 1, Section 107.01 of Subtitle 27 of the Zoning Ordinance.
BERM: An earthen mound designed to provide screening of undesirable views, reduce noise, etc.
BUFFER: A combination of physical space and vertical elements, such as plants, berms, fences, or walls, the
purpose of which is to separate and screen incompatible land uses from each other.
BUFFERYARD: One of several specific combinations of minimum building setbacks, landscaped yard
widths, and plant material requirements set forth in Section 4.7, Buffering Incompatible Uses, for use in
buffering incompatible land uses.
CONSERVATION LANDSCAPING: A landscape methodology that uses native plants, removes invasive
plants, conserves water, and minimizes use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in order to provide
sustainable biological communities.
CRITICAL ROOT ZONE: The minimum volume of roots necessary for maintenance of tree health and
stability. The critical root zone of a specimen tree (thirty (30) inches diameter at breast height (dbh) or
greater) is a circle with a radial distance of one and one half (1.5) feet for every one (1) inch dbh. The critical
root zone of a non-specimen tree (less than thirty (30) inches dbh) is a circle with a radial distance of one (1)
foot for every one (1) inch of dbh, with a minimum of eight (8) feet.
DECIDUOUS: A plant with foliage that is shed annually.
EVAPOTRANSPIRATION: The sum of evaporation and plant transpiration from the earths surface to the
atmosphere.
EVERGREEN: A plant with foliage that persists and remains green year-round.
GREEN AREA: An area of land associated with and located on the same parcel of land as a building for
which it serves to provide light and air. Green area, for purposes of this manual, does not include any water
surfaces or paved surfaces or any impervious area of a site, such as rooftops or patios.
105
HISTORIC ROAD: A public or private road that has been documented by historic surveys, and
maintains its historic alignment and landscape context through views of natural features, historic
landscape patterns, historic sites and structures, historic farmstead groupings, or rural villages and is
identified as a historic road in the Approved Countywide Master Plan of Transportation.
HISTORIC SITE: As identified on the Prince Georges County Historic Sites and Districts Plan as a
designated historic site or that is noted on the National Register of Historic Places.
INVASIVE SPECIES: A non-native plant that tends to escape containment and rapidly spreads in an area
where there are few natural controls to its growth, resulting in a crowding out of native species or lessening of
biological diversity. For purposes of this manual, invasive species are those identified in (1) Invasive Species
of Concern in Maryland (as updated periodically by the Maryland Invasive Species Council), or (2) Plant
Invaders of Mid-Atlantic Natural Areas, published by the National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (as updated periodically).
NATIVE SPECIES: A plant historically present in a particular region. Native is usually defined as having
been found indigenous to the local area before colonization. For purposes of this manual, native species are
those as identified in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Publication, Native Plants for Wildlife Habitat and
Conservation Landscaping Chesapeake Bay Watershed or the M-NCPPC publication, Native Plants of
Prince Georges County.
ORNAMENTAL TREE: A deciduous tree planted primarily for its ornamental value. May be any size at
maturity, but will tend to be smaller than a shade tree.
PARKWAY: A linear, landscaped park designed to encompass a roadway that is restricted to use by
automobiles. Suitland Parkway and Baltimore-Washington Parkway are the two parkways located in
Prince Georges County and are identified as such in the Approved Countywide Master Plan of
Transportation.
PLANT UNIT: Plant unit equivalencies are as follows:

One (1) shade tree = Ten (10) plant units
One (1) evergreen tree = Five (5) plant units
One (1) ornamental tree = Five (5) plant units
One (1) shrub = One (1) plant unit
106
PRIVATE STREET: A private road, right-of-way, or easement along which development is authorized
pursuant to Subtitle 24, except for easements created under Section 24-128(b)(9) to avoid potentially
hazardous or dangerous traffic situations, for easements utilized pursuant to Section 24-128(b)(10), for
opportunity housing, or for right-of-way easements in an integrated shopping center pursuant to Section 24128(b)(15) or any other right-of-way or access easement that is not defined as a street in Subtitle 27.
SCENIC BYWAY: Transportation Corridors identified by the Maryland State Highway Administration and
identified as such in the Approved Countywide Master Plan of Transportation, linking historic and scenic
features under a specific theme.
SCENIC ROAD: A public or private road that provides scenic views along a substantial part of its length
through natural or manmade features, such as forest or extensive woodland, cropland, pasturage, or
meadows; distinctive topography, including outcroppings, streambeds, and wetlands; traditional building
types; historic sites; or roadway features, such as curving, rolling roadway alignment, and leaf tunnels;
and is identified as a scenic road in the Approved Countywide Master Plan of Transportation.
SCREENING: A method of reducing the impact of visual and/or noise intrusions through the use of plant
materials, berms, fences, walls, or any combination thereof. Screening blocks that which is unsightly or
offensive with a more harmonious element or a combination of elements.
SETBACK: The distance between a building or structure (not including ground-level parking lots or other
paved surfaces) and the street right-of-way or lot line.
SHADE TREE: A deciduous (or rarely, an evergreen) tree planted primarily for its high crown of foliage or
overhead canopy. A major shade tree at maturity reaches a height of at least seventy (70) feet. A minor shade
tree generally does not exceed a height of forty (40) feet.
SHRUB: A woody plant, smaller than a tree that consists of a number of small stems from the ground or
small branches near the ground. It may be deciduous or evergreen.
SPECIMEN TREE: A particularly impressive or unusual example of a species due to its size, shape, age, or
any other trait that epitomizes the character of the species.
107
SPECIAL ROADWAY: A roadway identified in the Approved Countywide Master Plan of Transportation
as either a designated scenic or historic road, a state-designated scenic byway, or one of the two parkways
(Suitland or Baltimore-Washington).
STREET TREE: A tree planted in close proximity to a street in order to provide canopy over the street, to
give the street a sense of spatial definition and human scale, to provide shade, and soften the street edge.
TREE: A large, woody plant having one or several self-supporting stems or trunks and numerous branches.
It may be classified as deciduous or evergreen.
TREES, EXISTING: Existing trees and shrubs of a number, size, and type that approximately accomplish
the same function as new plantings but do not necessarily meet the definition of woodland in the Woodland
Conservation and Wildlife Habitat Ordinance.
108
Appendices
The following appendices may be revised and/or updated by the Planning Board or the planning director (or
designee).
Appendix Number
Appendix Name
Alternative Compliance Submittal Checklist
Plant Substitution Request Form
Plant Lists
Landscape Planting Specifications and Planting Details
109
Appendix 1
Alternative Compliance Submittal Checklist
(1)
Completed application form.
(2)
Application Fee:
(a)
In conjunction with a permit (fee).
(b)
In conjunction with companion case (no fee).
(3)
Underlying permit case or underlying companion case number on application form.
(4)
Section of Landscape Manual from which Alternative Compliance is requested.
(5)
A typewritten Statement of Justification demonstrating how the request satisfies the requirements
of Section 1.3, Alternative Compliance of the Landscape Manual. The statement must be signed
by the applicant or the designated correspondent.
(6)
One (1) zoning sketch map.
(7)
One (1) aerial photograph with property outlined in red.
(8)
Any supporting information (photographs, previous Alternative Compliance approvals, etc.).
(9)
One (1) Tree Conservation Plan or Exemption Letter.
(10)
One (1) Site Plan demonstrating the following:

(a)
North arrow and scale.
(b)
Property lines.
(c)
Zoning and use of subject property and all abutting properties, location of buildings on
abutting properties within fifty (50) feet of a property line, and notes indicating the
existence of all buildings on abutting properties within two hundred (200) feet of a
property line; zoning and use of properties directly adjacent to the subject property.
110
(d)
Name, location, existing right-of-way width, ultimate right-of-way width, and all existing
and proposed improvements within all abutting streets.
(e)
Natural features, such as existing two (2) foot contour topography, ponds, lakes, and
streams.
(f)
Delineation of regulated environmental features, such as one hundred (100) year

floodplain, non-tidal wetlands, regulated streams, and associated buffers.
(g)
Existing and proposed stormwater management facilities.
(h)
Required bufferyard depths/widths (i.e., building setbacks and landscape yards from all
lot lines).
(i)
Location, height, dimensions, details, and use of all existing and proposed buildings and
other structures (including parking lots, sidewalks, and other paved areas; fences and
walls; and recreational equipment).
(j)
Proposed grading in two (2) foot contours, with any slope steeper than three-to-one (3:1)
labeled.
(k)
Location of existing and proposed utilities, including water, storm drain, and sanitary
sewer pipes; overhead wires; utility poles and boxes; and signs.
(l)
Location of existing and proposed easements, including, but not limited to, access
easements and utility easements.
(m)
Location, size, and description of all elements that are required to be screened by Section
4.4, Screening Requirements.
(11)
One (1) Landscape Plan in accordance with Section 2, Plan Preparation.
111
Appendix 2
Plant Substitution Request Form
DATE:
_____________
TO:
Urban Design Supervisor
FROM:
Applicant Name: ____________________________________

Phone: ____________________ Fax: ____________________
E-mail: ____________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________
___________________________________________
Signature: __________________________________________
SUBJECT:
Case Name: ________________________________
Case #: _________________
This request must be accompanied by a landscape plan highlighting the location of all plants for
which a substitution is requested.
Plant Approved on
Qty
Size
Native
Proposed Plant Substitution
Landscape Plan
Status*
Botanical/Common Name
Botanical/Common Name
(yes/no)
Qty
Size
Native
Status*
(yes/no)
*Native species as identified in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service publication, Native Plants for Wildlife
Habitat and Conservation Landscaping: Chesapeake Bay Watershed or The Maryland-National Capital
Park and Planning Commission publication, Native Plants of Prince Georges County dated 1998 or as
subsequently revised.
See the Prince Georges County Landscape Manual Section 1.4, Plant Substitutions, for more
information regarding the process and review criteria for plant substitutions.
Action
Date
Reviewer
_____ Approval _____ Denial
112
Appendix 3
Plant Lists
1. Table A-3(a)
Recommended Shade Trees
2. Table A-3(b)
Recommended Minor Shade Trees
3. Table A-3(c)
Recommended Ornamental Trees
4. Table A-3(d)
Recommended Evergreen Trees
5. Table A-3(e)
Trees Not Recommended For General Use
6. Table A-3(f)
Recommended Shrubs
7. Table A-3(g)
Prohibited Trees
8. Table A-3(h)
Prohibited Shrubs, Grasses, and Ground Covers
113
Table A-3-1
Recommended Shade Trees
Trees from the following list must be used to fulfill the requirements of the Landscape Manual unless
acceptable alternatives have been approved in advance by the planning director (or designee).
Botanic Name
Common Name
Acer rubrum and its cultivars
Red Maple
Fagus grandiflora
American Beech
Comments
Beech trees not desirable as street

trees due to surface roots.
Fagus sylvatica
European Beech
Ginkgo biloba Princeton Sentry
Male Ginkgo (graft)
Gleditsia triacanthos inermis
Thornless Honeylocust
Webworm
Selected cultivars:
Imperial
Moraine
Shademaster
Skyline
Gymnocladus dioicus
Kentucky Coffee Tree
Liquidambar styraciflua
Sweetgum
Fruit can be a maintenance

problem.
Metasequoia glyptostroboides
Dawn Redwood
Nyssa sylvatica
Black Gum
Platanus acerifolia Bloodgood
Bloodgood London Planetree
Platanus occidentalis
Sycamore
Quercus alba
White Oak
Quercus bicolor
Swamp White Oak
Quercus coccinea
Scarlet Oak
Quercus falcata
Southern Red Oak
Quercus michauxii
Swamp Chestnut Oak (Basket
Tap root. Difficult to transplant.
Oak)
Quercus palustris
Pin Oak
Cultivars without drooping

branches recommended.
114
Botanic Name
Common Name
Quercus phellos
Willow Oak
Quercus prinus
Chestnut Oak
Quercus rubra (borealis)
Red Oak
Quercus velutina
Black Oak
Sophora japonica Regent
Japanese Pagoda Tree
Taxodium distichum
Baldcypress
Tilia americana
American Linden
Tilia cordata Greenspire Linden
Greenspire Littleleaf
Tilia euchlora
Crimean Linden
Tilia tomentosa
Silver Linden
Ulmus hollandica Groenveldt
Groenveldt Elm
Ulmus parvifolia
Chinese Elm
Zelkova serrata
Japanese Zelkova
115
Comments
Table A-3-2
Recommended Minor Shade Trees
Botanic Name
Common Name
Acer buergerianum
Trident Maple
Acer capestre
Hedge Maple
Betula nigra
River Birch
Carpinus betulus Fastigiata
European Hornbeam
Cladrastis lutea
Yellowood
Eucommia ulmoides
Hardy Rubber Tree
Drought resistant.
Ostrya virginiana
Ironwood
Prefers better planting sites.
Prunus sargentii
Sargent Cherry
Sassafras albidum
Sassafras
Tilia mongolica
Mongolian Linden
Ulmus rubra
Slippery Elm
116
Comments
Table A-3-3
Recommended Ornamental Trees
Botanic Name
Common Name
Amelanchier canadensis
Serviceberry
Carpinus caroliniana
American Hornbeam
Cercis canadensis
Redbud
Chionanthus virginicus
Fringetree
Cornus kousa
Kousa Dogwood
Crataegus phaenopyrum
Washington Hawthorne
Crataegus viridis Winter King
Winter King Green Hawthorne
Lagerstroemia spp.
Crape Myrtle
Laburnum anagyroides
Goldenchain Tree
Magnolia spp.
Magnolia
Oxydendrum arboreum
Sourwood
Prunus spp.
Flowering Cherry and Plum
Styrax japonicum
Japanese Snowball
117
Comments
Thornless varieties are available.
Table A-3-4
Recommended Evergreen Trees
Botanic Name
Common Name
Cedrus atlantica glauca
Atlas Blue Cedar
Cryptomeria japonica
Japanese Cryptomeria
Cupressocyparis leylandi
Leyland Cypress
Ilex equifolium cultivars
English Holly
Ilex opaca cultivars
American Holly
Ilex x attenuata
Foster Holly
Juniperus virginiana
Eastern Red Cedar
Picea spp.
Spruce
Pinus spp.
Pine
Pseudotsuga menziesii
Douglas Fir
Thuja spp.
Arborvitae
Tsuga canadensis
Canadian Hemlock
118
Comments
Hemlock wooly adelgid
Table A-3-5
Trees Not Recommended for General Use
Botanic Name
Common Name
Comments
Acer negundo
Boxelder
Short-lived; weak wood, prone to

storm damage; prone to insects
and diseases; roots buckle paving
and clog drain pipes.
Acer platanoides
Norway Maple
Shallow spreading roots and

heavy shade prevent anything
from growing under it.
Acer pseudoplatanus
Sycamore Maple
Cankers. Subject to dead wood.

Invasive.
Acer saccharinum
Silver Maple
Same as Acer negundo
Ailanthus altissima
Tree of Heaven
Heavy seeding and sprouting.

Weak wood. Male flowers have
bad odor.
Albizia julibrissin
Mimosa, Silk Tree
Invasive.
Betula papyrifera
Paper Birch
Prone to birch borers, leafminers. Short lived.
Betula pendula
European White Birch
Prone to birch borers, leafminers. Short lived.
Ginkgo biloba female
Female Ginkgo
Very bad smelling fruit.
Gleditsia triacanthos
Thorny Honeylocust
Dangerous thorns.
Fraxinus pensylvanica
Marshalls Seedless Green Ash
Borers a problem.
Maclura pomifera
Osage Orange
Messy fruit. Large thorns.
Morus spp.
Mulberry
Heavy sprouting. Weak wood.
Marshalls Seedless
Messy fruit.
Populus spp.
Poplar
Short-lived. Tendency to sucker

freely. Roots lift paving and clog
drains. Prone to canker disease.
Quercus alba
White Oak
Extremely susceptible to gypsy
119
Botanic Name
Common Name
Comments
moths.
Sorbus spp.
Mountain Ash
Susceptible to many diseases and

insect pests.
Juglans nigra
Black Walnut
Phytotoxins from roots, messy

fruit.
Prunus serotina
Black Cherry
Messy fruit.
Ulmus americana
American Elm
Susceptible to elm bark beetle.
Ulmus pumila
Siberian Elm
Invasive.
120
Table A-3-6
Recommended Shrubs
Botanic Name
Common Name
Abelia grandiflora
Gossy Abelia
Azalea spp.
Azalea (in variety)
Clethra alnifolia
Summersweet
Cornus alba cultivars
Siberian Dogwood
Cornus stolonifera
Red-Osier Dogwood
Euonymus spp.
Euonymus (in variety)
Comments
Except Euonymus alatus due to

it invasiveness.
Forsythia spp.
Forsythia (in variety)
Ilex cornuta rotunda
Dwarf Chinese Holly
Ilex spp. (excl. above)
Holly (in variety)
Jasminum nudiflorum
Winter Jasmine
Juniperus chinensis sargenti,
Spreading or Dwarf Junipers (in
conferta, horizontalis, var.
variety)
Juniperus spp. (excl. above)
Junipers (in variety)
Kalmia latifolia
Mountain Laurel
Leucothoe spp.
Leucothoe
Mahonia aquifolium
Oregon Grape Holly
Myrica cerifera
Southern Bayberry
Myrica pensylvanica
Nothern Bayberry
Osmanthus spp.
Osmanthus (in variety)
Pieris Japonica
Japanese Andromeda
Prunus laurocerasus
Cherry Laurel
Schipkaensis
Pyracantha spp.
Firethorn
Rhododendron spp.
Rhododendron
Spiraea spp.
Spirea (in variety)
Except Spirea japonica due to its

invasiveness.
Taxus spp.
Yew (in variety)
121
Botanic Name
Common Name
Viburnum spp.
Viburnum (in variety)
Weigela spp.
Weigela (in variety)
122
Comments
Table A-3-7
Prohibited Trees
Botanic Name
Common Name
Acer platanoides
Norway Maple
Ailanthus altissima
Tree of Heaven
Comments
Heavy seeding and sprouting.

Weak wood. Male flowers have
bad odor.
Albizia julibrissin
Mimosa, Silk Tree
Broussonetia papyrifera
Paper Mulberry
Morus alba
White Mulberry
Invasive
Heavy sprouting. Weak wood.

Messy Fruit. Invasive.
Displacing and crossing with
native.
Paulownia tomentosa
Princess Tree
Pyrus calleryana
Bradford Pear
Quercus acutissima
Sawtooth Oak
123
Table A-3-8
Prohibited Shrubs, Grasses, and Ground Covers
Botanic Name
Common Name
Allium vineale
Wild Garlic
Alliaria petiolata
Garlic mustard
Ampelopsis brevipedunculata
Porcelainberry
Artemisia vulgaris
Mugwort
Arundo donax
Giant reed, wild cane
Akebia quinata
Five-leaved akebia
Bambusa, Phyllostachys, and
Bamboo
Pseudosassa
Berberis thunbergii
Japanese Barberry
Buddleia
Butterfly Bush
Carduus acanthoides
Plumeless Thistle
Carduus nutans
Musk Thistle
Cirsium arvense
Canada Thistle
Cirsium vulgare
Bull Thistle
Celastrus orbiculatus
Oriental Bittersweet
Centaurea biebersteinii
Spotted knapweed
Cynachum louiseae
Louis swallowwort
Elaeagnus umbellata
Autumn Olive
Euonymus alatus
Burning Bush
Euonymus fortunei
Creeping euonymus
Hedera helix
English Ivy
Hemerocallis fulva
Common daylily
Heracleum mantegazzianum
Giant hogweed
Humulus japonicus
Japanese Hops
Lespedeza cuneata
Chinese lespedeza
Ligustrum (spp.)
Privit
Lonicera
Honeysuckle
Lythrum salicaria
Purple loosestrife
124
Comments
Botanic Name
Common Name
Microstegium vimineum
Japanese stiltgrass
Miscanthus sinensis
Chinese Silver Grass
Murdannia keisak
Marsh dewflower
Perilla frutescens
Perilla
Phragmites australis
Common reed
Polygonum cuspidatum
Japanese Knotweed
Polygonum perfoliatum
Mile-a-minute
Pueraria montana v. lobata
Kudzu
Ranunculus ficaria
Lesser celandine
Rhodotypos scandens
Jetbead
Rubus phoenicolasius
Wineberry
Vinca minor
Periwinkle
Wisteria sinensis, W. floribunda
Wisterias, exotic
125
Comments
Appendix 4
Landscape Specifications and Planting Details
Landscape Specifications
Landscape specifications shall be as outlined below or as specified as best practices in the industry. Any
item or procedure not mentioned below shall be as specified in the Landscape Specification Guidelines
published by the Landscape Contractors Association (latest edition) or as subsequently amended.
(a)
Plant Materials
The landscape contractor shall furnish and install and/or dig, ball, burlap, and transplant
all of the plant materials called for on the drawings and/or listed in the Plant Schedule.
(b)
Plant Names
Plant names used in the Plant Schedule shall be identified in accordance with Hortus
Third, by L. H. Bailey, 1976 or any subsequent edition.
(c)
Plant Standards
All plant materials shall be equal to or better than the requirements of the American
Standard for Nursery Stock, latest edition, as published by the American Nursery and
Landscape Association (hereafter referred to as ANLA Standards). All plants shall be
typical of their species and variety, shall have a normal habit of growth, and shall be first
quality, sound, vigorous, well-branched, and with healthy well-furnished root systems.
They shall be free of disease, insect pests, and mechanical injuries.
(1)
All plants shall be nursery grown and shall have been grown under the same
climatic conditions as the location of this project for at least two years before
planting. Neither heeled-in plants nor plants from cold storage will be accepted.
126
(2)
Collected plants or transplanted trees may be called for by the landscape architect
and used, provided, however, that locations and soil conditions will permit proper
balling.
(d)
Plant Measurements
All plants shall conform to the measurements specified in the Plant Schedule.
(1)
Caliper measurements shall be taken six (6) inches above grade for trees under
four (4) inch caliper and twelve (12) inches above grade for trees four (4) inches
caliper and over.
(2)
Minimum branching height for all shade trees shall be six (6) to eight (8) feet.
(3)
Minimum size for planting shade trees shall be two and one half to three (2-1/2
3) inches caliper, twelve to fourteen (1214) feet in height.
(4)
Minimum size for planting minor shade trees shall be two and one half to three
(2-1/23) inches caliper, eight to ten (810) feet in height.
(5)
Minimum size for planting ornamental trees shall be one and a half to one and
three-fourths (1-1/21-3/4) inches caliper, seven to nine (79) feet in height.
(6)
Minimum size for planting evergreen trees shall be six to eight (68) feet in
height.
127
(7)
Caliper, height, and spread shall be generally as follows:
Caliper
Height
Spread
22-1/2
1214
68
2-1/23
1214
68
33-1/2
1416
68
3-1/24
1416
810
44-1/2
1618
810
4-1/25
1618
1012
55-1/2
1820
1012
5-1/26
1820
1214
All plant material shall generally average the median for the size ranges indicated
above and as indicated in the ANLA Standards.
(8)
Minimum size for planting shrubs shall be, in general, eighteen to twenty-four
(18-24) inches in height or spread, as appropriate, except that a larger size may
be required when deemed appropriate by the planning director (or designee) in
the case of particular species or planting situations.
(e)
Planting Methods
All proposed plant material that meets the specifications in Appendix 4, Section (a), Plant
Materials, are to be planted in accordance with the following planting methods during the
proper seasons as described below.
(1)
Planting Seasons
A professional horticulturalist/nurseryman shall be consulted to determine the

proper time, based on plant species and weather conditions, to move and install
particular plant material to minimize stress to the plant. Planting of deciduous
material may be continued during the winter months provided there is no frost in
the ground and frost-free top soil planting mixtures are used.
128
(2)
Digging
All plant material shall be dug, balled, and burlapped or bare root in accordance
with the American Standard for Nursery Stock, American Nursery and
Landscape Association.
(3)
Excavation of Plant Pits
The landscape contractor shall excavate all plant pits, vine pits, hedge trenches
and shrub beds as follows:
(A)
All pits shall be generally circular in outline, with bowl shaped sides.
The tree pit shall be deep enough to allow one-eighth (1/8) of the ball to
be above the existing grade. Plants shall rest on undisturbed existing soil
or well-compacted backfill. The tree pit must be a minimum of nine (9)
inches larger on every side than the ball of the tree.
(B)
If areas are designated as shrub beds or hedge trenches, they shall be

cultivated to at least an eighteen (18) inches in depth minimum. Areas
designated for ground covers and vines shall be cultivated to at least
twelve (12) inches in depth minimum.
(4)
Staking, Guying, and Wrapping
See the Landscape Specification Guidelines.
(5)
Plant Pruning, Edging, and Mulching
(A)
Each tree, shrub, or vine shall be pruned in an appropriate manner to its

particular requirements in accordance with accepted standard practices as
stated in ANSI Standards A300 for pruning. Broken or bruised branches
shall be removed with clean cuts made on an angle from the bark ridge to
the branch collar, no flush cuts, to minimize the area cut. All cuts shall
129
be made with sharp tools. Trim all edges smooth. No tree wound
dressings shall be applied.
(B)
All trenches and shrub beds shall be edged and cultivated to the lines
shown on the drawing. The areas around isolated plants shall be edged
and cultivated to the full diameter of the pit. Sod that has been removed
and stacked shall be used to trim the edges of all excavated areas to the
neat lines of the plant pit saucers, the edges of shrub areas, hedge
trenches and vine pockets.
(C)
After cultivation, all plant materials shall be mulched with a two to three
(23) inch layer of tan bark, peat moss, or another approved material
over the entire area of the bed or saucer.
(f)
Seeding and Sodding
All seeding and sodding shall be as per 1994 Standards and Specifications for Soil
Erosion and Sediment Control or the latest edition.
(g)
Top Soil
Top soil shall be retained and/or provided on all sites and spread over all unimproved
areas.
Planting Details
Shall be in accordance with standard practices in the industry.
Tree Preservation Measures
For more information on this subject, contact the Environmental Planning Section, Countywide
Planning Division of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission.
130
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission

Prince Georges County Planning Department
14741 Governor Oden Bowie Drive
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
www.pgplanning.org
Cover Photo: Rob Meintjes

Location: University of Maryland in Prince Georges County, Maryland
Trees: Willow Oaks (Quercus Phellos), the Prince Georges County Official Tree

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PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission

SECTION 2 PLAN PREPARATION .................................................................................................. 15

SECTION 3 LANDSCAPE ELEMENTS AND DESIGN CRITERIA ........................................................ 18

SECTION 4 LANDSCAPE STANDARDS ...................................................................................................... 31

SECTION 5 GLOSSARY OF TERMS ......................................................................................................... 105

APPENDICES ................................................................................................................................. 109

4.7-5 Developing Non-Residential Use Adjacent to Vacant Residentially-Zoned Property .............. 91

On-Site Residential Planting Requirements...................................................................... 37

Parking Lot Interior Planting Requirements ..................................................................... 54

Use Impact Categories ...................................................................................................... 80

Minimum Bufferyard Requirements ................................................................................. 87

Bufferyard Types .............................................................................................................. 88

Residential Requirements for One-Family Detached Lots ............................................... 38

Residential Requirements for Townhouses, One-Family Semi-Detached, and

Residential Requirements for Two-Family and Three-Family Dwellings Arranged

Residential Requirements for Multifamily ....................................................................... 40

Requirements for Landscape Strips Along Streets ........................................................... 46

Buffering Residential Development from Streets ............................................................. 72

Buffering Development from Special Roadways ............................................................. 73

Buffering Incompatible Uses Requirements ..................................................................... 95

Sustainable Landscaping Requirements ......................................................................... 100

Street Trees Along Private Rights-of-Way ..................................................................... 104

2010 Comprehensive Update

Establish a greater sense of continuity within individual developments.

Ensure smoother visual transitions from one type of development to another.

Define public and private spaces.

Screen unsightly views and provide privacy.

Protect scenic and historic landscapes and sites.

Environmental and Health Benefits

Reduce heat islands, and minimize effects on microclimates.

Filter and reduce stormwater runoff.

Reduce greenhouse gases and improve air quality.

Promote energy conservation.

Increase pedestrian activity by creating safer pedestrian-friendly environments.

Reduce the negative effects of reflection and glare.

Provide wildlife habitat.

Enhance commercial viability of an area or business.

Increase home values.

Minimize utility costs.

SECTION 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION AND PROCEDURES

Building permits that involve an increase in the GFA of a multifamily building(s)

Structured parking garages are exempt from Section 4.3.

Restriping of an existing parking compound whether or not it results in an

Permits pertaining to an existing single-family home.

Access easement authorized pursuant to Sections 24-128(b)(1), (3), (11) and

Alleys as defined by Subtitle 27 or Subtitle 24.

Space limitations, unusually shaped lots, prevailing practices in the surrounding

Safety considerations make alternative compliance necessary.

An alternative compliance proposal is equal or better than normal compliance in

A proposed alternative compliance measure must be equally effective as normal

Requests for alternative compliance shall be accompanied by sufficient written, graphic,

No reduction in the quantities of overall plant materials or native plant materials.

No significant change in size or location of plant materials.

If the plant requested substitution(s) is not approved, a representative of the

Certification of Installation of Plant Materials

Maintenance and Enforcement

All required landscaping, buffering, and screening shall be maintained in a healthy

Certificate of Landscape Maintenance

SECTION 2 - PLAN PREPARATION

Preparation of Landscape Plans

Existing vegetation to be saved (indicated and noted accurately by size and

Methods and details for protection of existing vegetation during construction.

Prince George's County Landscape Manual - December 2010

Prince George's County Landscape Manual - December 2010